A Guide to Living with Glaucoma
This content is also available in:
Español (Spanish)
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of vision loss and blindness, especially among older adults. It often develops slowly and without warning, earning its nickname: the “sneak thief of sight.” This guide is here to help you understand glaucoma in plain language, navigate your diagnosis, and take steps to protect your vision and quality of life.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can damage the optic nerve, which carries visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage can lead to vision loss, especially in your side (peripheral) vision. Left untreated, glaucoma can cause complete blindness.
A simulation of how a person with glaucoma might see
Key Facts about Glaucoma:
- It often has no early symptoms.
- It can affect one or both eyes.
- Vision loss usually starts at the edges and may go unnoticed.
- Early detection and treatment can help prevent serious vision loss.
Who Is at Risk?
Certain groups are more likely to develop glaucoma, including:
- Individuals of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent
- Those with a family history of glaucoma
- People with diabetes or high blood pressure
- Anyone who has had eye injuries or surgeries
Tip: If you’re at higher risk, get a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years.
What Are Some Symptoms to Watch For?
Glaucoma often progresses without noticeable signs. However, you may notice:
- Trouble seeing objects off to the side
- Bumping into things or tripping
- Difficulty adjusting to dim lighting
- Seeing halos around lights
- Blurred vision or eye discomfort
If you experience any of these, see an eye care provider promptly.
How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
A comprehensive eye exam is the best way to detect glaucoma early. Your doctor may:
- Measure your cornea’s thickness
Accessible tip for blind or low vision patients: You can request your results in audio, large print, or digital format for screen readers. Ask your doctor to explain findings in plain language.
Living with Glaucoma: What You Can Do?
If you’ve been diagnosed with glaucoma, there are many steps you can take to manage it and protect your vision:
Be Proactive About Your Care
- Schedule regular checkups with your eye doctor.
- Ask questions about your diagnosis and test results.
- Understand your treatment plan.
Manage Your Medications
Ensure you can safely manage your medication.
- Take your eye drops exactly as prescribed.
- Use alarms or reminders if needed.
- Tell your doctor if side effects make it hard to stick to your routine.
Make the Most of Your Vision
- Use assistive technology like magnification or screen readers to access information on your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Adjust Your Environment
- Use high-contrast tape on stairs and door frames.
- Improve lighting in key areas of your home.
- Keep commonly used items in consistent places.
For more tips, check out Redesigning Your Home and Fall Prevention.
Connect with Others
- Talk to family and friends about your condition.
Understanding Your Vision Changes
Even if your central vision seems fine, glaucoma often affects how well you function day to day. Ask yourself:
- Do I miss things off to the side?
- Do I feel less confident walking in low light?
- Do I have difficulty reading, driving, or seeing faces?
If so, talk to a low vision specialist. Some tools and strategies can help.
Managing Glaucoma
While you cannot cure glaucoma, you can manage it. Treatment helps lower eye pressure to prevent further damage. Options may include:
Note: Focus on the goal: protecting the vision you still have.
The Future of Glaucoma Care
Glaucoma care is constantly evolving thanks to ongoing research. With more new treatments, diagnostic tools, and vision rehabilitation therapies becoming available, staying informed is crucial. Talk to your doctor about current options and visit trusted websites like the Glaucoma Research Foundation or the National Institutes of Health.
Final Thoughts
Being diagnosed with glaucoma can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. With the right care, tools, and support, many people with glaucoma live independently and do the things they love. Be informed, be proactive, and advocate for your care.
Your vision matters—now and in the future.
Learn More