During a routine eye exam at VisionMD Eye Doctors, some patients are surprised to hear they are considered glaucoma suspects. One patient recalled feeling confused and concerned—did this mean they had glaucoma? Their doctor explained that while they didn’t have glaucoma yet, certain risk factors meant their eye health needed closer monitoring to prevent potential vision loss.
If you’ve been told you’re a glaucoma suspect, you may be wondering what that means and what steps you should take to protect your vision.
What Does It Mean to Be a Glaucoma Suspect?
A glaucoma suspect is someone who has one or more risk factors that increase the chance of developing glaucoma but does not currently have any signs of optic nerve damage or vision loss. It means your eye doctor will closely monitor your eye health over time to catch any early changes before glaucoma develops.
Common Risk Factors for Glaucoma
Your doctor may classify you as a glaucoma suspect if you have:
- Elevated Intraocular Pressure (IOP): High eye pressure is a major risk factor for glaucoma. Normal eye pressure ranges from 10-21 mmHg, but some people with higher levels never develop glaucoma, while others with normal pressure do.
- Optic Nerve Changes: If the optic nerve appears thinner or has irregularities, it could indicate early signs of damage.
- Family History of Glaucoma: If a close relative has glaucoma, your risk is significantly higher.
- Thin Corneas: A thinner-than-average cornea can affect pressure readings and increase the risk of glaucoma.
- Age & Ethnicity: People over 40, particularly those of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent, have a higher risk.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or extreme nearsightedness can contribute to glaucoma risk.
How Is a Glaucoma Suspect Monitored?
Being a glaucoma suspect doesn’t mean immediate treatment is necessary, but regular monitoring is crucial to detect early signs of the disease. Your eye doctor may recommend:
1. Regular Eye Pressure Checks
- Measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) at each visit.
2. Optic Nerve Imaging & Visual Field Tests
- Scanning the optic nerve to track any structural changes.
- Checking for blind spots or vision loss.
3. Gonioscopy & Pachymetry
- Gonioscopy: Examines the drainage angle of the eye.
- Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness to better understand pressure readings.
When Does a Glaucoma Suspect Need Treatment?
If tests reveal progressive optic nerve damage or vision changes, your doctor may recommend early intervention to slow or prevent glaucoma. Treatment options include:
- Prescription Eye Drops – To lower intraocular pressure.
- Laser Therapy – Helps fluid drain more effectively from the eye.
- Surgery – Reserved for more advanced cases to reduce eye pressure.
Take the Next Step in Protecting Your Vision
If you’ve been identified as a glaucoma suspect, regular monitoring is the best way to prevent permanent vision loss. At VisionMD Eye Doctors, we provide comprehensive glaucoma eye exams and personalized care plans to help protect your eyesight. Schedule an appointment to stay proactive about your eye health.