“Glaucoma Symptoms: How to Recognise Early Signs and Prevent Vision Loss”

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye disease that can damage the optic nerve. This nerve sends signals from your eye to your brain. Because glaucoma often has no early warning signs, many people do not know they have it. However, early detection is key to preventing vision loss from glaucoma. According to the World Health Organization, glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide.

Common Symptoms of Glaucoma

At first, glaucoma may not cause any symptoms. But as the disease progresses, you might notice changes. For example, you may lose side vision. Over time, this can lead to tunnel vision or even blindness. Watch for these common glaucoma symptoms:

Blurred vision

Loss of side (peripheral) vision

Seeing halos around lights

Eye pain or pressure

Redness in the eye

Nausea or vomiting (with severe eye pain)

If you notice any of these symptoms, see an eye specialist right away. Early treatment can help protect your vision.

Causes and Risk Factors

Glaucoma usually happens when fluid builds up in the front part of the eye. This extra fluid increases pressure inside the eye and can damage the optic nerve. But sometimes, glaucoma can occur even with normal eye pressure. Several risk factors can raise your chances of developing glaucoma:

Age over 60

Family history of glaucoma

African, Asian, or Hispanic background

High eye pressure

Thin corneas

Diabetes or high blood pressure

Long-term use of steroid medicines

Eye injuries

Because some risk factors cannot be changed, regular eye exams are important. This is especially true if you have a family history of glaucoma.

How Glaucoma is Diagnosed

Doctors use several tests to diagnose glaucoma. First, they measure the pressure inside your eye. Next, they check your side vision. They may also look at the optic nerve for signs of damage. Common tests include:

Tonometry (measures eye pressure)

Visual field test (checks side vision)

Ophthalmoscopy (examines the optic nerve)

Pachymetry (measures cornea thickness)

Gonioscopy (looks at the drainage angle in the eye)

Because glaucoma can develop slowly, regular eye exams are the best way to catch it early.

Treatment Options for Glaucoma

While there is no cure for glaucoma, treatment can help slow or stop vision loss. Your doctor will choose the best glaucoma treatment options for you. These may include:

Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure

Oral medicines

Laser therapy to improve fluid drainage

Surgery to create a new drainage path

For many people, using eye drops every day is enough. However, some may need laser treatment or surgery. Early treatment is key to preventing vision loss from glaucoma.

Lifestyle Tips and Prevention

Although you cannot always prevent glaucoma, you can lower your risk. Here are some helpful tips:

Get regular eye exams, especially if you are over 40

Manage health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure

Exercise regularly, but avoid activities that raise eye pressure

Protect your eyes from injury by wearing safety glasses

Take prescribed eye drops as directed

Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables

By following these steps, you can help protect your vision and reduce your risk of glaucoma.

When to See an Eye Specialist

If you notice any changes in your vision, do not wait. For example, sudden vision loss, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights are warning signs. Even if you have no symptoms, regular eye exams are important. Early detection gives you the best chance to prevent vision loss from glaucoma.

In summary, glaucoma is a serious eye disease, but early action can help. Schedule regular eye exams and talk to your doctor about your risk. If you have concerns, consult an eye specialist for personalized advice.