Glaucoma: Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on history and physical examination, which includes a detailed evaluation of the eyes by an ophthalmologist. The doctor will examine the eyes using an ophthalmoscope and will measure the pressure within the eyes.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to lower the pressure within the eye and prevent blindness. Methods of lowering the pressure include eye drops (e.g., beta blocker eye drops), oral medications (e.g., gingko biloba), laser treatments, and surgery. Eye drops and oral medications are the preferred treatment. Laser therapy can be effective in the short term, but usually needs to be repeated. Surgery is a last resort, usually for patients with severe disease.

Because the disease is generally asymptomatic until severe damage has occurred, many patients do not use their medicines consistently or follow up as recommended. Compliance with medications and regular ophthalmologic examinations are important to prevent blindness.