Introduction

Glaucoma is a common eye condition that can lead to vision loss. Early detection is important because, in many cases, glaucoma has no warning signs. However, with regular eye exams and proper care, you can help protect your vision. In this blog, we will explain glaucoma symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention tips. We will also share when to see an eye specialist for glaucoma.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. The optic nerve sends visual information from your eye to your brain. Often, glaucoma is linked to high pressure inside the eye. Over time, this pressure can harm the nerve and cause vision loss. Although anyone can get glaucoma, it is more common in older adults. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

Many people with glaucoma do not notice symptoms at first. In fact, vision loss often happens slowly. Still, knowing the signs can help you seek care early. Common glaucoma symptoms include:

Blurred vision

Loss of side (peripheral) vision

Seeing halos around lights

Eye pain or pressure

Redness in the eye

Nausea or vomiting (in severe cases)

However, some types of glaucoma can cause sudden symptoms. If you notice any of these signs, seek medical help right away.

Causes and Risk Factors

Glaucoma usually develops when fluid builds up in the front part of the eye. This extra fluid increases eye pressure, which can damage the optic nerve. But, not everyone with high eye pressure gets glaucoma. Several risk factors can raise your chances, such as:

Age over 60 years

Family history of glaucoma

Being of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent

Having high eye pressure

Previous eye injury

Certain medical conditions, like diabetes or high blood pressure

Long-term use of steroid medications

Because these factors can increase your risk, regular eye exams are important, especially as you age.

Diagnosis

Early diagnosis can help prevent vision loss from glaucoma. But how is glaucoma diagnosed? Eye doctors use several tests to check for glaucoma, including:

Measuring eye pressure (tonometry)

Examining the optic nerve for damage

Testing your side (peripheral) vision

Measuring the thickness of the cornea

Inspecting the drainage angle of the eye

Usually, these tests are quick and painless. If you have risk factors, your doctor may suggest more frequent exams.

Treatment Options

There are several glaucoma treatment options available today. The main goal is to lower eye pressure and prevent further damage. Treatment may include:

Prescription eye drops to reduce eye pressure

Oral medications, if drops are not enough

Laser therapy to improve fluid drainage

Surgery to create a new drainage path

Although treatment cannot restore lost vision, it can help slow or stop further loss. Your doctor will choose the best plan for you based on your needs.

Prevention Tips

While you cannot always prevent glaucoma, some steps may lower your risk. For example, you can:

Get regular eye exams, especially after age 40

Know your family history of eye diseases

Protect your eyes from injury by wearing safety glasses

Manage health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure

Use prescribed eye drops as directed

Exercise regularly to help lower eye pressure

By following these tips, you can support your eye health and help in preventing glaucoma.

When to See an Eye Specialist

It is important to see an eye specialist if you notice any changes in your vision. For instance, if you have blurred vision, eye pain, or loss of side vision, make an appointment soon. Also, if you have risk factors for glaucoma, schedule regular eye exams. Early treatment can protect your sight and improve your quality of life.

In summary, glaucoma is a serious eye condition, but early care makes a difference. Consult an eye specialist for personalized advice on glaucoma and regular check-ups.