Overview

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve at the back of your eye. This can cause vision loss. Although the cause of glaucoma isn't clear, experts think it's often related to a buildup of pressure in the eye. The result can be a slow, permanent loss of vision. Sometimes both eyes are affected. Other times, one eye is more damaged than the other.

Your doctor may have told you that you are a glaucoma suspect. That usually means you have pressure in your eye, but it hasn't done damage. If you see your doctor regularly and follow your treatment plan, you may be able to prevent vision loss.

If you have glaucoma, your doctor will want to watch you closely. You will probably use medicated eyedrops every day. Your doctor may also recommend surgery. Treatment for glaucoma cannot give you back any lost vision. But it can prevent more vision loss.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
• Use eyedrops exactly as directed by your doctor. Use the coloured caps to help you remember when to use them.
• Use eyedrops as follows:
  • Bend your head back. Look up toward your eyebrows. With one finger, gently pull the lower lid down. This will make a small pocket.
  • Drop the medicine into the pocket. (Do not touch the dropper against the eyelid or anything else.) Close your eyes for 2 minutes. This gives your eye time to absorb the medicine. Try not to blink.
  • While your eyes are closed, press your finger gently against the area between the inner corner of your eye and your nose. This will prevent the drops from getting into your nose. This is important to do because if the drops get into your nose, they can cause side effects.
  • If you are using more than one kind of eyedrops, wait at least 5 minutes before you use another kind.
• Make sure your other doctors know that you have glaucoma. You may need to change or stop taking other medicines.