Glaucoma is a chronic eye disease that progressively damages the optic nerve. Without treatment, it can lead to irreversible vision loss. Early screening makes all the difference.
In Switzerland, approximately 200,000 people are affected by glaucoma, nearly half of whom have not yet been diagnosed. The condition represents one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. Glaucoma affects 1 to 3% of people over 40, and nearly 10% after age 70.
Glaucoma occurs when intraocular pressure increases, preventing aqueous humour from draining correctly. This pressure progressively damages the optic nerve — the “cable” that transmits visual signals to the brain. Without treatment, the damage can cause irreversible loss of peripheral and then central vision.
The main cause is increased intraocular pressure, which prevents aqueous humour from draining normally. Other mechanisms can also damage the optic nerve even without high pressure.
Increased intraocular pressure (main cause)Impaired aqueous humour circulationOptic nerve fragility independent of pressureVascular factors: poor ocular blood circulationGenetic predisposition Age over 40Family history of glaucoma Elevated intraocular pressureDiabetes or high blood pressureHigh myopia or hyperopia Prolonged use of corticosteroidsHistory of eye injury
Most common — 90% of casesThe most widespread form. It progresses slowly and silently, without pain or obvious symptoms. Vision remains clear until an advanced stage. This is why it is nicknamed “the silent thief of sight”. Regular screening from age 40 is essential.
Ophthalmic emergencyA rare but severe form. Intraocular pressure rises suddenly, causing intense pain, sudden vision loss, halos around lights, nausea and eye redness. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.
Caused by another conditionDevelops following another eye disease (uveitis, injury, advanced cataract) or medical treatment (corticosteroids). Treatment of the underlying cause is the priority.
Rare — from birthPresent at birth or in the first years of life due to a malformation of the drainage system. Signs include watering eyes, light sensitivity and enlarged corneas. Requires early surgery.
SYMPTOMS & INDICATIONS
In the vast majority of cases, chronic glaucoma causes no visible symptoms until an advanced stage. This is why regular screening is essential.
OUR DIAGNOSIS
Diagnosis is carried out by an ophthalmologist using precise, painless examinations. In Switzerland, regular screening from age 40 is recommended, with more frequent checks from age 50.
FMH Specialist in ophthalmology
ophthalmology
FMH Specialist in ophthalmology
ophthalmology
FMH Specialist in ophthalmology
ophthalmology
FMH Specialist in ophthalmology
ophthalmologyFMH Specialist in ophthalmology
ophthalmologyOUR TREATMENTS
The aim of treatment is to reduce intraocular pressure to protect the optic nerve. It does not cure the disease but stops or slows its progression. Treatment is adapted to each patient based on the stage of the disease.
Reference medical treatmentReduce intraocular fluid productionImprove natural drainageEffective in approximately 85% of casesDaily instillation at homeSelective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) — improves drainagePeripheral iridotomy — prevents acute glaucoma Quick, painless, outpatient Local anaesthetic drops onlyRenewable if necessaryTrabeculectomy — new drainage channelDeep non-perforating sclerectomyDrainage implants (tubes)Rigorous post-operative follow-up includedEffective in stabilising pressureLaser treatment for glaucoma is an effective alternative to eye drops or a complement when drops are no longer sufficient. These procedures are quick, painless and performed on an outpatient basis.
The laser targets the trabeculum, the drainage zone of the ocular fluid. It improves the outflow of aqueous humour to reduce pressure. Session of 5 to 10 minutes, painless, renewable.
The laser creates a tiny opening in the iris to allow better circulation of ocular fluid. Indicated in patients at risk of angle-closure glaucoma.
TEach patient receives personalised follow-up adapted to the stage of their disease and their medical situation.
Complete measurement of eye pressure, optic nerve examination (fundus, OCT) and visual field. Screening from age 40 is recommended in Switzerland.
45 minThe doctor evaluates the severity of glaucoma, pressure levels and the condition of the optic nerve. A personalised treatment plan is established.
45 minDepending on the stage: eye drops prescribed, laser treatment or surgery. Treatment is explained in detail and adapted to your lifestyle.
45 minGlaucoma is a chronic disease. Check-ups every 6 to 12 months allow treatment to be adjusted and pressure to be kept stable.
45 minRecovery & aftercare
Strict adherence to the prescribed treatment is essential to preserve long-term vision. Our teams are available to answer all your questions between consultations.
Immediate return home after the session. Slight eye discomfort may persist for a few hours. Pressure check-up at Day 7 and at 1 month.
Close follow-up in the first weeks. Anti-inflammatory drops prescribed. Avoid intense physical activity for 2 weeks. Gradual resumption of activities
Check-ups every 6 to 12 months: pressure measurement, OCT of the optic nerve, perimetry. Treatment adjusted as needed.
Glaucoma treatments are safe and well tolerated. The main risk remains lack of treatment, which leads to irreversible vision loss.
Detail
Possible local effects: irritation, redness, allergy. Change of treatment possible if poorly tolerated.
Temporary pressure rise post-session (a few hours). Rare inflammation. Efficacy: 80–85%.
Rare risks: infection, bleeding, secondary cataract. Rigorous post-operative monitoring included.
Progressive and irreversible loss of peripheral then central vision.
An annual ophthalmology check-up from age 40 is the best protection. If risk factors are present, follow-up is every 6 months.
Regular instillation of drops is essential. Never stop a treatment without medical advice, even in the absence of symptoms.
Moderate physical activity, balanced diet, stopping smoking and avoiding certain medicines (corticosteroids) without medical supervision.
In Switzerland, the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma are generally covered by basic health insurance (LAMal), subject to your deductible. We recommend checking with your insurer for your exact coverage..
Screening consultations — covered by LAMal with risk factors Eye drops — covered on prescription Laser treatment (SLT, iridotomy) — covered by LAMal Glaucoma surgery — covered by LAMal Post-operative follow-up — included in careContact us for any questions about reimbursement or for a personalised quote.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Find answers to the questions our patients ask most often before booking an appointment.
No, glaucoma cannot be cured. However, early treatment and regular follow-up can stop its progression and preserve vision in the long term.
Yes, in approximately 85% of cases, drops effectively control intraocular pressure. Regular follow-up is necessary to ensure their efficacy.
No. The laser treatment is quick (5 to 10 minutes) and painless, performed under simple local anaesthetic drops. You can resume normal activities after the session.
Surgery is only considered if pressure remains high despite medication and laser treatment, or if the disease continues to progress despite well-managed treatment.
Often yes, but asymmetrically. The progression may differ between the two eyes. Both eyes must be monitored even if only one is affected.
Yes, screening examinations are covered by LAMal with risk factors (family history, elevated pressure, age over 40, etc.).
Book your glaucoma screening appointment and receive personalised follow-up by our specialists.
Book an appointment
