Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damage the optic nerve, the nerve that brings information from the eye to the brain. Although glaucoma may not show any early symptoms, progressive and permanent vision loss may occur.

Yes, you are at risk. You are 10 times more likely to get glaucoma if an immediate family member (first degree relative a parent, sibling, or child. Also called FDR) has glaucoma. You’re also at greater risk if you’re over 60; are of African American, Latino or Asian descent; are extremely near-sighted or far-sighted; have increased eye pressure; or use steroid medications. 

Glaucoma can cause permanent vision loss if it is not treated. There’s no cure, but if it is diagnosed early, your doctor can treat it and prevent it from getting worse or affecting your daily life. Finding glaucoma early and seeing an eye doctor frequently is very important.

You could have glaucoma and not realize it. You might not have any symptoms in the beginning. That’s why it’s called the “silent thief of sight.” Eventually, you may have dim or “missing” areas of vision that you can only see if you cover one eye. Over time, glaucoma can cause loss of vision that cannot be reversed, and even blindness. 

Get your eyes checked by an eye medical doctor (ophthalmologist). Even if you don’t have glaucoma now, continue to get tested regularly. You could get it later. The earlier we catch it, the better. Find an Eye Doctor near you.  

Not a problem! Here are some options to get free or low-cost eye care:

• You may be able to get a free eye exam through the AAO Eye Care America Program. Find out if you qualify.
• Visit our list of resources for low cost care eye care. Click here for more information.

Your doctor will use special instruments to check your eye pressure, optic  nerve and visual field. They may take pictures to track changes in your eyes over time.

Your eye doctor can slow or prevent blindness by lowering your eye pressure. They can do that with laser treatment, prescription eye drops or surgery. 

AGS Family Matters is a project sponsored by the American Glaucoma Society — the nation’s leading organization of glaucoma specialists. Our goal is to raise awareness about your increased risk for glaucoma if a first degree relative (parent, sibling, child) has the disease.