Do You Know What to Ask Before Your Glaucoma Consultation?

 

You just found out you might have glaucoma. Or maybe you’ve been managing it for a while, and now your doctor says it’s time to consider surgery. Either way, one big question pops into your head:

“What do I do now?”

Here’s the truth: Most people don’t know what questions to ask during their first glaucoma appointment. That’s normal — but it’s also risky.

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the U.S. It often develops slowly, with no warning signs, until vision loss is permanent. That’s why your first consultation with a glaucoma specialist is critical. It’s your chance to fully understand your condition, catch any red flags early, and get a personalized plan that protects your sight.

So if you're seeing an eye doctor or glaucoma specialist, especially to discuss glaucoma surgery or laser treatment, you need to come prepared.

This guide will help you do exactly that. We’ll cover 10 essential questions you should ask during your consultation — and explain why each one matters.

Let’s get into it.

Why Being Prepared Matters for Glaucoma

Here’s what makes glaucoma tricky: it’s not just one disease. It’s a group of eye conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve — usually because of high pressure in the eye.

Some types progress quickly, others slowly. Some can be treated with drops. Others require glaucoma laser surgery or even traditional surgery to prevent further vision loss.

That’s why there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The more informed you are about your specific case, the better decisions you and your doctor can make together.

Question 1: What Type of Glaucoma Do I Have?

This is your foundation. The most common types include:

• Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (slow and silent)

• Angle-Closure Glaucoma (sudden and severe)

• Normal-Tension Glaucoma (damage despite normal pressure)

• Secondary Glaucoma (caused by other conditions or trauma)

Each type behaves differently and responds to different treatments. Ask your specialist to explain your type clearly — and what that means for you long term.

Question 2: How Much Has My Vision Already Been Affected?

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, and that damage can’t be reversed. But knowing how much vision you’ve lost — if any — gives you a clear picture of where you stand.

Tests like:

• Visual field testing

• Optical coherence tomography (OCT)

• Retinal nerve imaging

...help measure how far the disease has progressed. Don’t be afraid to ask for a breakdown in simple terms — your doctor should walk you through the results.

Question 3: What Is My Intraocular Pressure (IOP), and What’s a Safe Range for Me?

Eye pressure — also called intraocular pressure or IOP — is one of the most important numbers in glaucoma care.

Normal is typically between 10–21 mmHg, but that’s just a general range. Some patients need lower pressure to prevent damage.

Ask your eye doctor:

• What is my IOP now?

• What pressure are we targeting?

• How will we measure it over time?

Controlling this number is often the #1 goal in glaucoma treatment.

Question 4: What Treatment Options Are Best for My Stage of Glaucoma?

Treatment depends on how advanced your glaucoma is.

Mild cases may be controlled with:

• Prescription eye drops to lower pressure

• Lifestyle changes (like reducing caffeine or improving blood flow)

Moderate to advanced cases might need:

• Glaucoma laser surgery (like SLT or ALT)

• Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)

• Traditional filtering surgery (like trabeculectomy or tube shunt)

Each treatment has pros and cons. Ask your eye doctor why they recommend a certain route — and what other options exist.

Question 5: Am I a Good Candidate for Glaucoma Laser Surgery?

Laser surgery can be a great middle ground between drops and full surgery. It’s quick, often painless, and done in-office.

The most common laser procedure is Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT). It helps fluid drain out of the eye better, lowering pressure.

Ask your specialist:

• Am I a candidate for laser treatment?

• How long do the effects last?

• Will I still need drops afterward?

Laser treatment isn’t for everyone — but for many, it’s a great first step before more invasive surgery.

Question 6: If I Need Glaucoma Surgery, What Should I Expect?

This is where things can get serious — and it’s important to ask the hard questions.

Surgical options like:

• Trabeculectomy

• Tube shunt implantation

• MIGS (minimally invasive glaucoma surgery)

…can significantly reduce pressure but come with recovery time and risks.

Ask your surgeon:

• How is the surgery done?

• What’s the recovery like?

• What are the success rates?

• Will I still need medications?

You should leave this part of the consultation 100% clear on what surgery involves.

Also Read: Are Your Contact Lenses Harming the Planet Without You Realizing It?

Question 7: How Often Will I Need Follow-Up Visits?

Glaucoma care is ongoing. Even if your pressure is under control, you’ll need regular check-ins to make sure things stay stable.

Ask:

• How often should I come in?

• What tests will be done at each visit?

• Will I see the same specialist every time?

This helps you set realistic expectations and build a consistent care plan.

Question 8: Are There Any Lifestyle Changes That Can Help My Glaucoma?

You may not be able to cure glaucoma with lifestyle alone — but there are things that support your overall eye health.

Ask your doctor about:

• Limiting caffeine (can raise IOP)

• Regular exercise (can lower pressure)

• Diet and supplements

• Sleep position (avoid sleeping face-down)

• Managing related conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure

This turns your treatment plan into something you can take action on every day.

Question 9: What Should I Watch Out For Between Visits?

Glaucoma often progresses without symptoms — but sudden changes can signal a problem. Ask what signs mean you need to call your specialist immediately.

Examples:

• Sudden eye pain

• Blurry or tunnel vision

• Halos around lights

• Nausea or headache (can indicate angle-closure crisis)

You should never feel unsure about when to speak up.

Question 10: How Do I Contact You If I Have Questions Later?

You won’t remember everything in one appointment — and that’s OK. But you should know exactly how to reach your provider when you need help.

Ask:

• Do you have an emergency line?

• Can I send questions by email?

• Who will follow up after the consultation?

This gives you peace of mind after the visit — especially if your vision suddenly changes.

Bonus Tip: Write Your Questions Down (Or Print This Page)

Appointments go fast. You’ll get a lot of information in a short time. That’s why it helps to write your questions ahead of time — or even bring this list with you.

Better yet, bring a trusted family member or friend to take notes and support you during the visit.

Where to Get Expert Glaucoma Care in Southwest Florida

If you’re in Southwest Florida and looking for a trusted provider who takes the time to explain your options, guide you through the process, and offer advanced treatments — you’re in the right place.

At Center For Sight SWFL, our experienced eye doctors and glaucoma specialists offer:

• Advanced glaucoma testing

• Personalized treatment plans

• Minimally invasive and laser glaucoma surgery

• Ongoing monitoring and long-term care

We don’t just treat the disease. We educate, support, and guide you every step of the way.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Glaucoma can’t be reversed, but it can be managed. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of protecting your vision long-term.

So — what questions will you bring to your glaucoma consultation?

Contact us now to book your appointment with a glaucoma specialist in Southwest Florida. We’ll answer your questions, explain your treatment options, and help you move forward with confidence.