Anyone can develop glaucoma. But in most cases, it affects adults age 40 and older.
Other risk factors include:
Diabetes
Trauma to the eye
Taking certain medications such as prednisone
Family history of glaucoma
During an eye exam, your eye care provider will check your eye pressure and dilate your pupils to examine the back of your eye, including the optic nerve. You’ll likely also undergo tests such as a visual field exam to check your peripheral vision.
If you do have glaucoma, the treatment plan will depend on the severity of the condition. Typical options include eye drops, laser surgery, or microsurgery. The least invasive treatment is preferred, but severe cases may require surgery immediately in order to alleviate fluid blockages.