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Talking to Your Doctor About Glaucoma

by Mary Calvagna, MS

Talking to Your Doctor

Living With Glaucoma

Resource Guide

En Español

You have a unique medical history. Therefore, it is essential to talk with your doctor about your personal risk factors and/or experience with glaucoma. By talking openly and regularly with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

General Tips for Gathering Information

Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your doctor:

Bring someone else with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask.
Write your questions ahead of time, so you don't forget them.
Write down the answers you get, and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for clarification, if necessary.
Don't be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information about what you are discussing. You have a right to know.

Specific Questions to Ask Your Doctor

About Glaucoma

What type of glaucoma do I have?
Did something cause my condition? And if so, what?
How will my vision be affected now and in the future?

About Your Risk of Developing Glaucoma

Based on my medical history, lifestyle, and family background, am I at risk for glaucoma?
How often should I get a comprehensive eye examination to screen for glaucoma and other eye diseases?
Who else in my family is at increased risk of having glaucoma? How often should they get a comprehensive eye exam?

About Treatment Options

What treatments are used with glaucoma?
Which treatment options are appropriate for me? Why?
How long will my treatment last?
What risks and side effects are associated with my treatment?
What is likely to happen without treatment?
What medication options are available to me?
- What are the benefits/side effects of these medications?
- Will these medications interact with other medications, over-the-counter products, or dietary or herbal supplements that I am already taking?
Are there any complementary or alternative therapies available to me?

About Outlook

Can you recommend any glaucoma support groups?
What are the chances my treatment will be effective?
How will I know that my treatment has been effective?
What can I tell my spouse, children, parents, and other family members and friends about my condition?
What is my expected prognosis?
How often will I need checkups?

References:

Angle-closure glaucoma. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at: http://www.dynamed... . Updated July 15, 2016. Accessed February 12, 2018.

Getting the most out of your doctor appointment. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Updated January 2018. Accessed February 12, 2018.

Open-angle glaucoma. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at: http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T114157/Open-angle-glaucoma . Updated January 24, 2018. Accessed February 2, 2018.

Questions to ask your doctor. Glaucoma Research Foundation website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Updated April 22, 2013. Accessed February 12, 2018.

Last reviewed March 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
Last Updated: 3/15/2015

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