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What Is Glaucoma?

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Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, usually due to elevated intraocular pressure. It is often called the "silent thief of sight" because vision loss begins in the peripheral (side) vision with no pain or symptoms in the early stages.

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What Is Glaucoma?

When to seek care

Anyone over 40 should have a comprehensive eye exam — comprehensive exam including eye pressure and optic nerve evaluation every 1‑2 years. Immediate care is needed for sudden eye pain, severe headache with nausea, or sudden vision changes — these may indicate acute angle-closure glaucoma.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

Early glaucoma typically has no symptoms. As it progresses: gradual loss of peripheral vision (side vision)
tunnel vision in advanced stages
halos around lights
blurred vision
eye pain and nausea (in acute angle-closure glaucoma). Sudden severe symptoms require emergency care.

Causes & Risk Factors

The most common form (open-angle glaucoma) develops when the eye's drainage system becomes less efficient over time, causing pressure to build. Risk factors: age over 60, elevated eye pressure, family history of glaucoma, thin corneas, African American or Hispanic heritage, diabetes, and nearsightedness.

Happy African American Girlfriends. Regular eye exams help detect glaucoma. When was your last eye exam?

Treatment Options

Overview
Glaucoma is managed but not cured. Treatment options: prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure; laser therapy (SLT) to improve drainage; microsurgery (trabeculectomy) or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) to create new drainage pathways. Early detection and consistent treatment are essential to preserve vision.

Good to know

Book Appointment Call (662) 327‑7271

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Insurance & Cost for Glaucoma

Glaucoma screening during a comprehensive eye exam is often covered by vision plans, while ongoing glaucoma management — prescription drops, laser therapy, and monitoring — typically bills to medical insurance when you have a diagnosed condition. Copays and deductibles apply based on your plan. Typically covered: • Eye pressure checks and optic nerve evaluation during comprehensive exams • Prescription glaucoma medications when medically necessary • Ongoing monitoring visits billed to medical insurance for diagnosed glaucoma • Laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) under many medical plans Often out-of-pocket: • Routine vision exam copay (separate from medical glaucoma management) • Medical plan deductibles and specialist copays • Advanced surgical procedures depending on plan prior authorization

Coverage varies by plan — we verify your benefits before treatment

Call before your visit and we will check your vision and medical benefits so there are no surprises.

Book Appointment Call (662) 327‑7271

Frequently Asked Questions About Glaucoma

Can glaucoma be cured?

Glaucoma cannot be cured, but it can be effectively managed. With consistent treatment and monitoring, most patients retain good functional vision throughout their lives.

Do I have to take eye drops forever?

In most cases, yes — glaucoma eye drops are a long-term commitment. Laser or surgical options can sometimes reduce or eliminate the need for drops, which your doctor can discuss based on your situation.

Is glaucoma hereditary?

Yes. Having a first-degree relative with glaucoma significantly increases your risk. We recommend that family members of glaucoma patients get regular screenings.

Is glaucoma treatment covered by insurance?

Glaucoma management is typically covered by medical insurance once diagnosed. Screening during a routine exam may fall under your vision plan. Prescription eye drops and monitoring visits are usually medical benefits — we verify coverage before starting treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye care provider with any questions about a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911.

Book an Evaluation for Glaucoma

Anyone over 40 should have a comprehensive eye exam including eye pressure and optic nerve evaluation every 1‑2 years. Immediate care is needed for sudden eye pain, severe headache with nausea, or sudden vision changes — these may indicate acute angle-closure glaucoma.

Book Appointment Call (662) 327‑7271

Explore More

Related resources from Golden Triangle Eye Center.

What Is Glaucoma?

What Is Glaucoma?

When to seek care

Symptoms of Glaucoma

Early glaucoma typically has no symptoms. As it progresses: gradual loss of peripheral vision (side vision)

tunnel vision in advanced stages

halos around lights

blurred vision

eye pain and nausea (in acute angle-closure glaucoma). Sudden severe symptoms require emergency care.

Causes & Risk Factors

Treatment Options

Overview

Insurance & Cost for Glaucoma

Coverage varies by plan — we verify your benefits before treatment

Frequently Asked Questions About Glaucoma

Medical Disclaimer

Book an Evaluation for Glaucoma

Explore More

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