Early detection and treatment of glaucoma can significantly lower the chances of developing glaucoma and its resulting loss of vision. Physicians of patients at higher risk, such as patients over 60, people with diabetes, people with a family history of glaucoma, African-Ameticans, Hispanics or people who are on corticosteroid therapy, may recommend comprehensive eye examinations every year or sometimes more frequently. Patients diagnosed with glaucoma should take their medication as prescribed and continue to see their eye care specialist regularly.

Scientists at the U.S. government’s National Eye Institute found that eye drops used daily for lowering eye pressure delayed and reduced the development of primary open-angle glaucoma in black Americans as much as 50 percent. This is a significant finding because primary open-angle glaucoma is the nation’s most common form of glaucoma and a leading cause of blindness.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the recommended schedule for comprehensive eye exams in patients without any eye disease is as follows:

• Age 20-29. Individuals of African descent and those with a family history of glaucoma should have an eye exam every three to five years. Others should have an eye exam at least once during this period.
  
  
• Age 30-39. Individuals of African descent and those with a family history of glaucoma should have an eye exam at least every two to four years. Others should have an eye exam at least twice during this period.
  
  
• Age 40-64. Every two to four years.
  
  
• Age 65 and older. Every one to two years.

Patients who are diagnosed with glaucoma should inform blood relatives of their condition to alert them to their own potential for developing the disease. Blood relatives should be encouraged to get a comprehensive eye examination at least once every two years. Some insurance plans, including Medicare, cover high-risk individuals for comprehensive eye exams to screen for glaucoma.

Research has shown that exercise may reduce the risk of glaucoma. It also helps control diabetes and high blood pressure, two of the risk factors for glaucoma. People are advised not to hold in their breath during resistance activities such as lifting weights, which may increase intraocular pressure.