Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain.

It is often associated with increased intraocular pressure (IOP), but it can also occur with normal or even low IOP. Glaucoma can lead to vision loss and, if left untreated, can eventually result in blindness.

Your eye doctor should perform a routine glaucoma screening at your periodic eye exams.

However, you should see your eye doctor if you notice changes in your vision, such as blurring or halos when you look at lights.

There are several tests available to test for glaucoma, including intraocular pressure testing and visual field testing. These screenings are painless, but could make it possible to diagnose and treat glaucoma in its earliest stages.

Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in the United States?

It accounts for approximately 10 percent of all cases of total vision loss – some who lose their vision despite seeking treatment. The disease can strike anyone at any time, from birth to old age. More than 2 million Americans are believed to live with glaucoma, of who only 50 percent have received a diagnosis.