What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve, which is a long nerve that travels from the back of the eye to the brain. There are many types of glaucoma, the most common categories being open angle and closed angle glaucoma. Open angle glaucoma is the most common subtype in Canada and the majority of patients we treat. Many patients with glaucoma will have high intraocular pressure (eye pressure), but there are some types of glaucoma with pressure in the normal range. Unfortunately, glaucoma damage cannot be reversed, however with close monitoring and treatment the goal is to stop or prevent the disease from worsening.

What are the symptoms of glaucoma?

Glaucoma is typically a silent disease that causes loss of peripheral vision. Some forms of glaucoma may also affect the central vision. Because most patients with glaucoma have no symptoms, and they may not be aware of the disease until significant visual field has been lost. Other symptoms of glaucoma may be related to high eye pressure. This may include eye pain, headaches, redness or blurred vision among other things.

How do we monitor glaucoma?

 Glaucoma is monitored through clinical examinations, eye pressure checks, visual field tests and taking scans of the optic nerve. Because most types of glaucoma are silent (no symptoms), it is important to continue to follow with your physician for regular examinations to ensure there isn’t any worsening of your glaucoma.

How do we treat glaucoma?

The most important component in treating glaucoma is reducing eye pressure. This can be done through eye drops, laser or surgery. The majority of patients will start with eye drops or laser for their treatment, with surgery usually being reserved for the more advanced cases. Different patients will have varying treatment plans depending on their type and stage of glaucoma (among other factors), and consultation with your physician will determine the optimal treatment for you.

Dr. Ammar Khan, MD, FRCSC, DABO
Eye Physician and Surgeon
Glaucoma Specialist

This information is intended to be for general purposes only and is not meant to replace medical advice by your physician. Please discuss with your physician for more specific information pertaining to you.