Nearly 2.2 million Americans age 40 years and older have the most common form of glaucoma — open–angle glaucoma — according to a recent estimate. Unfortunately, almost half of these people are not aware they have the disease. Glaucoma, “the silent thief of sight,” usually has no symptoms in its early stages. Left untreated, glaucoma damages vision and can lead to blindness. Although the disease cannot be “cured,” it can be controlled and its progress stopped. The key to protecting your vision is early detection and treatment.

This section of the Eye Surgery Education Council web site is designed to provide glaucoma patients and their families, news media, educators, and others with information on what glaucoma is, the tests commonly used in its detection, and the most common forms of drug, laser, and surgical treatment for the disease. Finally, we urge you to care for your vision by having a routine eye examination.

« How the Eye Works
« What Is Glaucoma?
« What Are the Different Types of Glaucoma?
« What Are the Risk Factors for Glaucoma?
« What Are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?
« How Is Glaucoma Detected?
« How Is Glaucoma Treated?
« Commonly Prescribed Drugs
« Patients Must Follow Through
« Glaucoma Surgery
« After Glaucoma Surgery
« Frequently Asked Questions