Stress Center Peer Support

Last month i went to the Optometrist and she looked into my eyes and said that I have early Glaucoma! She did not seem concerned about it! I asked her if I should be concerned with it! She said not to worry for maybe another 10 years! She did not prescribe any meds or eye drops! I am still wondering does that mean that I have Glaucoma! Also I take antidepressant medicine which indicates not to be taken for patients with Glaucoma! If you have any insight on this please advice! Thanks!

pauly j

This is very strange. You either have glaucoma or you don't. There is no middle ground. I, personally, have the start of cataracts but their treatment is not necessary until they become bothersome. Glaucoma, on the other hand, MUST be treated. In fact, the earlier glaucoma is diagnosed the earlier treatment can be started. Glaucoma means your eye pressure is abnormally high. I have never heard of an "early stage". Glaucoma doesn't come in stages like cataracts do. Perhaps your optometrist meant that your eye pressure was a wee bit higher than normal and that she didn't consider it high enough to treat. BUT, another 10 years? How does she know that? And why did she use the words "early glaucoma". There is NO such thing! I went through all this with my mother many times. I will tell you that I would get a second opnion, most definitely! And probably from an ophthalmologist, not an optometrist. As far as medications, there are so many to treat glaucoma these days that there will be one that doesn't interfere with your anti-depressants. Laser surgery is another option. My mother had that and it took about 5-10 minutes and was totally painless. Good luck!

Thanks Flyer

I think i will get a second opinion! I appreciate your taking the time to respond to my post!

pauly j

Please try to see an ophthalmologist (an M.D.), esp. since you are taking other medication. Glaucoma, as Flyer says, is an indicator of possible blood pressure issues in the eyes. Nothing to ignore.

Best to you.

I'm sure that this must be frightening to you but try not to worry to much about it. I used to obsess about my eye health ALL THE TIME! Luckily noting has ever been wrong with my eyes, except for dry eyes, but I'm sure you will be fine!