Symptoms of Glaucoma: What to Watch For

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, affecting millions of people. Often called the "silent thief of sight," it typically progresses without noticeable symptoms until significant damage has already occurred. Early detection through routine eye exams is crucial, as it can help slow or prevent vision loss. Knowing the warning signs can make all the difference.
 

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which connects your eye to your brain. The most common type, open-angle glaucoma, develops slowly over time, often without any pain or obvious symptoms. Angle-closure glaucoma, though less common, can occur suddenly and is considered a medical emergency.
 

Common Symptoms of Open-Angle Glaucoma

Open-angle glaucoma typically progresses so slowly that you may not notice any changes in your vision at first. However, as the condition worsens, you may experience:
 

• Gradual Loss of Peripheral Vision: One of the earliest symptoms is the slow loss of side or peripheral vision. You may start to notice this while driving or reading.
   

• Tunnel Vision in Advanced Stages: As the disease progresses, peripheral vision can narrow significantly, leaving you with tunnel vision.
   

• Difficulty Seeing in Low Light: If you’re having more trouble than usual seeing at night or in dimly lit areas, this could be a sign of glaucoma.
   

Unfortunately, because these changes are subtle, it’s easy to overlook them until more severe vision loss occurs.
 

Signs of Angle-Closure Glaucoma

In contrast, angle-closure glaucoma develops quickly and presents more noticeable symptoms. This type of glaucoma is a medical emergency, and you should seek immediate treatment if you experience:
 

• Severe Eye Pain: Sudden, intense pain in one or both eyes is a major red flag.
   

• Nausea and Vomiting: Eye pain accompanied by nausea or vomiting can indicate a rapid rise in intraocular pressure, characteristic of angle-closure glaucoma.
   

• Blurry Vision: Sudden blurred vision or the appearance of rainbow-colored halos around lights can also indicate this type of glaucoma.
   

• Redness in the Eye: Eye redness that accompanies the other symptoms is another potential sign of angle-closure glaucoma.
   

Why Regular Eye Exams Are Essential

Since glaucoma can go unnoticed until advanced stages, routine eye exams are crucial for early detection. A comprehensive eye exam includes measuring your eye pressure, checking the optic nerve for damage, and testing your peripheral vision.
 

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, schedule an appointment with your eye care professional immediately. While vision loss from glaucoma can’t be reversed, treatments such as prescription eye drops, laser treatments, or surgery can help slow its progression and preserve your remaining vision.
 

Schedule Your Next Eye Exam with First Class Eye Care Today

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. Knowing the symptoms to watch for can help you seek treatment in time. At First Class Eye Care, we are dedicated to helping you maintain your vision and detect any issues early. 
 

Schedule your eye exam with First Class Eye Care to safeguard your sight for the future. We offer comprehensive eye exams that include glaucoma screening, ensuring your eyes get the care they need. Contact our office in Duluth, Georgia, by calling (404) 793-3937 to book an appointment today.