Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can damage the optic nerve and lead to permanent vision loss if not detected and treated early.

Yes. If glaucoma is not diagnosed or monitored properly, it can cause severe and irreversible vision loss. Vision loss from glaucoma is usually gradual and affects the peripheral (side) vision in earlier stages. When detected and treated early, blindness is however rare.

Yes. Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow progression and significantly reduce the risk of vision loss.

Glaucoma often has no symptoms in the early stages. Screening helps find it before vision loss occurs. This is typically done at all routine eye examinations with community optometrists.

Yes. Most people will not notice any change in vision until the disease is already advanced.

Risk is higher if you are older, have a family history of glaucoma, have raised eye pressure, are short-sighted, on long term steroids therapy or have previously had trauma to the eye.

A glaucoma assessment will include an eye pressure check, optic nerve examination, visual field (peripheral vision) testing, and imaging of the back of the eye and optic nerve.

Someone who is a "glaucoma suspect" usually has some signs related to glaucoma, but when combined with the whole picture are not enough to indicate that glaucoma is present at that point in time. "Glaucoma suspects" will typically need ongoing monitoring as they have a risk of developing glaucoma in the future.

Most patients will need drops, laser or surgery. Occasionally, mild glaucoma can be watched closely without treatment at first.

Yes, there are many types of glaucoma, but the most common 2 are Primary Open Angle Glaucoma and Primary Angle Closure Glaucoma.

Some patients with glaucoma may be suitable for laser treatment. We will discuss this if it is appropriate for your condition. The most common laser for open angle glaucoma is SLT or Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty.

Some patients with glaucoma may be suitable for laser treatment. We will discuss this if it is appropriate for your condition. The most common laser for angle closure glaucoma is LPI or Laser Peripheral Iridotomy.

At Access Eye Centre, we aim to make laser treatment for glaucoma affordable and accessible. SLT or Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty and LPI or Laser Peripheral Iridotomy lasers are bulk billed for all patients.

Monitoring depends on how severe the condition is and how stable it remains. Most patients need regular follow-up every six months, while more severe cases will be reviewed more often.

Yes. Optometrist referrals are welcomed and are often the best way to start the glaucoma pathway.

If you were previously seen through the Centre for Eye Health pathway, your previous results will have been posted to your My Health record. If you do not have access to this, we can help facilitate the retrieval of your past records and scans.