Glaucoma is usually picked up during a routine eye test, often before it causes any noticeable symptoms. Other tests are usually needed afterwards to diagnose and monitor the condition.
It's important to have regular eye tests so problems such as glaucoma can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible. Early treatment can help stop your vision becoming severely affected.
You should have an eye test at least every 2 years. If you're at a higher risk of glaucoma – for example, if you have a close relative with it – you may be advised to have more frequent tests.
You can get an eye test at a local opticians, and the tests are carried out by an optometrist. Find an optician near you.
Some people can receive free eye tests on the NHS. Find out if you're entitled to free NHS eye tests.
It's not possible to reverse any loss of vision that occurred before glaucoma was diagnosed, but treatment can help stop your vision getting worse.
The treatment recommended for you will depend on the type of glaucoma you have, but the options are:
You'll also probably need regular appointments to monitor your condition and check the treatment is working.
Information for patients who have been told they have narrow angles
Find out more about this glaucoma treatment
After surgery, your eye might water and be red, and your vision may be slightly blurred for up to 6 weeks but should return to normal.
The hospital will give you advice about which activities you can do while you recover. Most people are advised to keep their eye dry, and avoid driving, reading and heavy lifting for at least a week.
This includes the initial consultation, a visual fields test, and a visual acuity assessment.
If further outpatient tests and investigations are required, they will be charged at an additional rate. Beyond the visual fields test, the most commonly required test is an OCT scan, costing £260. Your consultant will discuss this with you at your consultation.
The cost of onward treatment can vary significantly for glaucoma. The cost will be provided after initial consultation, based on your personalised treatment plan.
Information about the causes, types and symptoms of glaucoma
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