If you or someone close to you is diagnosed with glaucoma or another eye condition, you may try to learn about the disease. However, you cannot believe everything you hear or read.

Glaucoma is a condition that causes increased intraocular pressure and could lead to vision loss. It is a group of eye diseases that cause progressive damage to the optic nerve, where it leaves the eye to carry visual information to the brain.

Glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness worldwide. An estimated 3.61 million people were blind due to glaucoma in 2020, while the number of people with glaucoma is projected to reach 111 million by 2040.

Glaucoma is often surrounded by certain misconceptions. In this article, we will debunk some of the most common misconceptions about glaucoma.

Myth 1: Glaucoma Only Affects Older People

There is truth to this statement since the risk of glaucoma increases with age. However, people of all ages can be diagnosed with this condition, including newborns.

While it is true that those in advanced ages bear a higher risk for the disease, both age groups may also suffer from an eye condition that can lead to secondary glaucoma.

Note: Cataracts are also common among older people. It’s important to consult your ophthalmologist to determine the exact cause of your vision changes.

Confused between glaucoma and cataracts? Find out how to tell them apart in our complete Glaucoma vs Cataracts guide.

Myth 2: You Will Not Develop Glaucoma If You Have 20/20 Vision

Glaucoma is sneaky because this condition does not manifest until after it has already reached its moderate to severe stage. One reason is that when one eye has problems with peripheral vision, the other compensates for it.

Undergoing a comprehensive eye exam helps detect glaucoma in its early phase. Schedule an eye exam with Island Hospital specialists today to detect glaucoma early and protect your sight.

Myth 3: Having Elevated Eye Pressure Means You Will Always Develop Glaucoma

Elevated eye pressure is a risk factor for developing glaucoma, but some types of glaucoma occur without high eye pressure. Similarly, not everyone with high eye pressure will develop glaucoma.

Obtaining treatment for high eye pressure can decrease your risk of developing glaucoma, so take any treatments prescribed by your ophthalmologist, like eye drops, seriously.

Myth 4: Since There Is No Cure, Patients Do Not Have to Monitor or Seek Treatment

While the cure for glaucoma has yet to be found, patients should still visit their ophthalmologist annually to screen for the disease and its warning signs.

By being proactive, sufferers of glaucoma can delay the process of vision deterioration and protect against vision loss. Those with elevated risk factors should be especially diligent to stay on top of eye health.

There are treatment options available that can help slow its progression. They aim to reduce the chances of developing damage in your visual field through the use of:

• Medications
• Laser therapy
• Surgery

Your eye doctor can work with you to find the most suitable solution to combat potential vision loss.

Not sure what to expect during your eye doctor visit? Discover everything you need to know before your appointment in our complete guide.

Myth 5: If You Do Not Have Symptoms, You Will Not Have Glaucoma

There are very few noticeable symptoms in the earlier stages. By the time many patients realise that they are experiencing vision loss, they are often in more advanced stages.

Some people may not notice when their peripheral vision starts to decrease because their other eye compensates. In other words, you may not notice or have symptoms, but you could still have glaucoma.

By proactively visiting your ophthalmologist for comprehensive eye exams, you can protect your vision and eye health.

Note: Similarly, diabetic retinopathy can also cause gradual vision loss that often goes unnoticed in the early stages, as it typically shows no symptoms until the disease has progressed.

It’s best to consult a specialist to determine the exact cause of your vision problems and receive the right treatment.

Protect Your Vision with Early Glaucoma Screening Today!

Glaucoma often develops silently, with little to no symptoms until vision loss has already occurred. Early detection through regular eye screenings is the best way to protect your sight and prevent irreversible damage.

At Island Hospital, our ophthalmology team provides comprehensive eye care services for patients of all ages. We assess your eyes for glaucoma and other vision-related conditions and offers a personalised treatment plan customised to your needs.

We’re proud to be recognised both locally and globally, including:

• A finalist for Malaysia’s Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital Programme
• A place on Newsweek’s lists of World’s Best Hospitals 2025

Don’t wait until your vision is affected! Book an appointment for your glaucoma screening at Island Hospital today for expert evaluation.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late – Get a Screening That Covers All The Bases

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What’s Included in Your Screening Experience:

✔ Physical examination

✔ Complete medical report

✔ Consultation by Health Screening Physician/Specialist

✔ Light refreshments

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