There are several different types of glaucoma. Most common is Open-angle glaucoma. This is the classic glaucoma in which the pressure builds up slowly and gradually, virtually undetected by the patient. This is why glaucoma is known as the thief of the night.

Closed-angle glaucoma is another form, though it is less common then Open-angle. In this type of glaucoma pressure usually builds up quickly and is painful. Due to the intensive nature of the quickly rising pressure, it must be lowered immediately to head off blindness.

Narrow-Angle Glaucoma: Narrow-angle (or chronic angle-closure) usually occurs in both eyes. Pressure normally rises slowly unlike an acute attack. If not treated in a timely fashion, the pressure may remain high and require long-term treatment.

Glaucoma is a lot like diabetes, it can not be cured but can be controlled. In treating any form of glaucoma the first step is lowering the pressure as quickly as possible to prevent permanent damage. This is usually accomplished by the use of drops. A laser may also be used to perform a procedure to lower pressure. In some rare cases surgery may be used to get fluid flowing through the eye again.