5 common myths about glaucoma: an expert view

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness worldwide, yet it remains misunderstood by many patients. As a consultant ophthalmologist, I regularly hear myths that cause unnecessary anxiety or, worse, delay diagnosis and treatment. Here are five of the most common myths about glaucoma, and the facts behind them.

Myth 1: Glaucoma only affects older people

It is true that glaucoma becomes more common with age, but it can affect anyone. Some babies are born with congenital glaucoma, and some young adults develop juvenile or secondary glaucoma. Family history, African-Caribbean ethnicity, short-sightedness, diabetes and long-term steroid use can all increase the risk at a younger age. Glaucoma does not respect age, which is why regular eye checks matter throughout life.

Myth 2: High eye pressure always means glaucoma

Eye pressure is one risk factor for glaucoma, but it is not the whole story. Some people have high eye pressure yet never develop glaucoma. This is called ocular hypertension. Others have normal or even low eye pressure but still experience optic nerve damage, a condition known as normal-tension glaucoma. Diagnosis depends on examining the optic nerve, visual field tests and OCT scans, not pressure alone.

Myth 3: Glaucoma always causes symptoms

The most common form of glaucoma, primary open-angle glaucoma, usually has no symptoms in its early stages. Vision loss begins in the periphery and progresses so slowly that it often goes unnoticed until the disease is advanced. By the time you notice tunnel vision, significant damage may have occurred. Regular eye examinations are the only reliable way to detect glaucoma early.

Myth 4: If you have glaucoma, you will go blind

Glaucoma can cause blindness if left untreated, but the vast majority of people diagnosed today keep useful sight for life. Modern treatments including eye drops, laser therapy and minimally invasive surgery are very effective at lowering eye pressure and slowing or stopping progression. The key is early diagnosis and consistent follow-up. Compliance with treatment is essential.

Myth 5: Once treated, glaucoma is cured

There is no cure for glaucoma. Treatment controls the disease by lowering eye pressure, but it does not reverse damage that has already occurred. This is why ongoing monitoring is necessary for life. Stopping drops or missing appointments because your vision feels fine can allow silent damage to continue. Good long-term management protects the sight you still have.

What the facts mean for you

Glaucoma is a serious but manageable condition. The most important things are regular eye checks, knowing your risk factors, and taking treatment exactly as prescribed. If you have a family history of glaucoma, you are entitled to free annual eye tests in the UK from the age of 40. Early detection is the closest thing we have to a cure.

Next steps

If you are over 40, have a family history of glaucoma, or have been told your eye pressure is high, book a comprehensive eye examination. A consultant-led assessment can measure your risk, examine your optic nerve, and put a clear monitoring or treatment plan in place to keep your sight safe.