eye care support

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye condition in which the optic nerve—the pathway that carries visual information from the eye to the brain—becomes damaged.

This damage is often linked to increased pressure inside the eye, although glaucoma can also occur when eye pressure is within the normal range.

The eye constantly produces fluid that drains through a fine channel system. If too much fluid is produced or the drainage becomes blocked, pressure can rise and damage the optic nerve.

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Glaucoma symptoms

Blurred vision
Coloured halos around lights
Loss of side vision
Eye pain or redness
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Glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms and many people are unaware they have it until significant damage has occurred.

What causes glaucoma?

The exact cause is not fully understood. In some people, the drainage system may be poorly formed or become blocked by natural materials or injury. In others, no clear cause is identified.

If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss. Damage usually begins in the peripheral (side) vision and progresses slowly. Over time, this can lead to tunnel vision or, in advanced cases, complete blindness.

Once vision is lost, it cannot be restored—but early detection and treatment can help prevent further damage. Modern care has made glaucoma a rare cause of blindness in Australia.

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Glaucoma FAQs

Optometrists use several simple, painless tests to assess for glaucoma, including:

  • Examining the optic nerve
  • Measuring eye pressure (tonometry)
  • Assessing the drainage angle
  • Testing the field of vision

Treatment aims to prevent further optic-nerve damage.

Options may include:

  • Prescription eye drops
  • Oral medication
  • Laser or surgical procedures if fluid drainage needs to be improved

Your optometrist will refer you to an ophthalmologist if specialist care is required.

There is no known way to prevent glaucoma, but early detection and treatment are the best ways to protect vision.

You are at higher risk of glaucoma if you:

  • Are over 40 years of age
  • Have a family history of glaucoma
  • Have certain medical or eye conditions

Regular eye examinations are essential for early detection.