Outlook

Although glaucoma cannot be cured, it can be controlled. People with glaucoma need to have regular eye examinations and usually need to continue treatment for the rest of their lives.

• Untreated acute glaucoma results in permanent vision loss. Untreated chronic glaucoma can progress to blindness within several years.

• Early diagnosis and treatment usually results in excellent success and vision is saved. The outcome for congenital glaucoma varies depending on the age that symptoms are detected and the child’s response to therapy.