What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually linked to raised pressure inside the eye. It is called the 'silent thief of sight' because it typically causes no symptoms until peripheral vision is already lost — and that loss is permanent. Early detection through screening is the key to preventing blindness.
Main types: open-angle (gradual, most common) and angle-closure (can be sudden and is a medical emergency, presenting with eye pain, redness, headache and halos).
Treatment Options
- Eye drops: First-line for most — lower eye pressure daily to protect the nerve.
- Laser (SLT / iridotomy): SLT lowers pressure in open-angle glaucoma; laser iridotomy treats or prevents angle-closure.
- Surgery (trabeculectomy, drainage implant, MIGS): When drops and laser don't control pressure adequately.
Treatment aims to halt further damage — it cannot restore vision already lost, which is why early treatment matters.
Who Should Get Screened?
Screening is advised for those over 40, anyone with a family history of glaucoma, high myopia, diabetes, or long-term steroid use. A check includes eye-pressure measurement, optic-nerve examination and a visual-field test.
Living With Glaucoma
Glaucoma is usually a lifelong condition managed with regular monitoring. Consistent use of prescribed drops and keeping follow-up appointments are essential to preserving vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
See who practises in this field: subspecialty focus, credentials and clinic websites, checked against public records.
Browse eye specialists →Consultation and tests at private clinics cost roughly S$150–S$500. Eye drops are an ongoing monthly cost. Laser (e.g. SLT) costs roughly S$800–S$2,000 per eye privately; surgery is several thousand dollars. Subsidised rates apply at public eye centres with referral, and surgery is Medisave-claimable.
No. Glaucoma cannot be cured and vision already lost cannot be restored. However, treatment with drops, laser or surgery can effectively halt or slow further damage, which is why early detection and consistent treatment are vital.
Open-angle glaucoma usually has no symptoms until significant peripheral vision is lost. Angle-closure glaucoma can cause sudden eye pain, redness, headache, blurred vision and halos — this is an emergency. Regular screening detects silent glaucoma early.
Yes. Glaucoma surgery (such as trabeculectomy or drainage implants) is a medically necessary procedure and is Medisave-claimable up to limits, often with Integrated Shield Plan coverage. Confirm with the clinic.
General information only — not medical advice. Always verify a doctor’s SMC registration and discuss your individual circumstances with a qualified specialist.