Introduction: Don’t Ignore the Subtle Signs of Vision Trouble
It’s easy to dismiss loss of vision due to the assumption that it’s either fatigue or the process of aging. However, if you notice that you are now seeing halos around lights in the evening or really feel like your eyes are unusually “pressurized”, you should know that you could be experiencing symptoms of a potentially more serious condition; glaucoma.
This blog is meant to be informational for those who have symptoms suggestive of glaucoma or a family history of glaucoma. Glaucoma is one of leading causes of permanent blindness, but if identified early and managed with a customized treatment plan, your vision can be managed and preserved. In this blog we explore the signs, causes, evaluation, and the treatment options clearly and in an actionable way.
What Is Glaucoma and Why Should You Care?
Glaucoma is an accumulation of eye conditions that slowly erode the optic nerve, which conveys image data from the eye to the brain. It is also often related to a buildup of pressure within the eye itself called intraocular pressure.
Without treatment, glaucoma can lead to irreversible vision loss. What makes it dangerous is that many individuals will not have any symptoms until significant damage has already occurred.
Common Symptoms of Glaucoma
Many forms of glaucoma develop slowly, and painlessly, meaning that you may not know that you have any problem until your vision is already impacted. There are a few warning signs to watch for.
Symptoms may include:
- Seeing halos or rainbow rings around lights
- Eye pressure or discomfort, especially in the evenings
- Blurred or tunnel vision
- Gradual loss of side (peripheral) vision
- Redness in the eye
- Headaches or eye pain
- Sudden nausea or vomiting with the eye pain (in acute cases)
If you recognize any of these symptoms, it is time to book an eye exam, and do so as soon as possible; early detection gives you the best opportunity to manage this condition.
What Causes Glaucoma?
While the exact cause of glaucoma is not always known, it often stems from problems with the eye’s drainage system. When fluid builds up inside the eye and cannot drain properly, pressure increases, and the optic nerve begins to deteriorate.
Risk factors that may increase your chances of developing glaucoma include:
- Age over 40
- Family history of glaucoma
- Diabetes, high blood pressure, or other vascular conditions
- Long-term use of corticosteroid medications
- Eye injuries or previous surgeries
- African, Asian, or Hispanic heritage
- Thin corneas or abnormal optic nerve anatomy
Even if you don’t have symptoms, routine eye exams are essential especially if one or more of these risk factors apply to you.
Diagnosing Glaucoma
Glaucoma can’t be diagnosed with symptoms alone, an ophthalmologist or optometrist will perform multiple tests to check your eye and optic nerve’s health.
There are generally several aspects of a comprehensive glaucoma evaluation, including:
Eye Pressure Measurement (Tonometry)
Measures the pressure within your eye. Higher pressure indicates a high risk of glaucoma.
Visual Field Test (Perimetry)
This assesses if you are losing side or peripheral vision, a common early sign of glaucoma.
Optic Nerve Examination (Ophthalmoscopy)
The eye doctor will check your optic nerve, if they observe damage or thinning; glaucoma is present.
Gonioscopy
This allows the doctor to evaluate the angle between your iris and cornea to determine the type of glaucoma present.
Corneal Thickness Measurement (Pachymetry)
A thin cornea may indicate elevated risk and affect the pressure readings.
Glaucoma Management and Treatment Options
Although there is no cure for glaucoma, if treated early enough, treatment can reduce or stop further vision loss. The exact treatment plan will depend on which type of glaucoma you have and how severe it is.
Some common treatment options for glaucoma are:
Prescription Eye Drops
These reduce intraocular pressure by accommodating either fluid production or drainage. Eye drops are frequently the first treatment option offering engineering interventions with strict adherence practices.
Oral Medications
An oral pill can be prescribed to help with controlling the pressure.
Laser Treatments
According to which type of glaucoma you have, the type of treatment (for example laser trabeculoplasty or laser iridotomy) can help the flow of fluid or can prevent a sudden spike in pressure.
Surgical Treatment
If medications and lasers are not successful in controlling the pressure, a surgical procedure (tronotop – a type of trabeculectomy surgical procedure, implanting drainage devices – tube surgery) can be advised.
At-Home Care and Lifestyle Tips
Glaucoma treatment always requires a specialist, but there are easy ways to support your eye health at home.
Helpful home care strategies include:
- Stay on your eye drops as prescribed.
- Keep all follow up appointments to monitor eye pressure and optic nerve health.
- Eat a nutrition rich in leafy greens, fish, and antioxidants.
- Exercise regularly to help lower eye pressure.
- Avoid drinking excessive caffeine or fluids all at once.
- Wear protective eye gear during sports or home projects.
- Manage chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension.
When Should You Seek Medical Help?
If you have sudden changes or loss of vision
- Eye irritation and nausea
- You see halos, especially at night
- You have family history of glaucoma
- You are over 40, have not seen an eye care specialist in over two years
If you wait there is a chance you could cause irreversible and permanent damage. The sooner you catch glaucoma the better options you typically have for management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is glaucoma always due to high pressure in the eyes?
Not always. Some people develop glaucoma with normal eye pressure. This is why it’s important to do the complete testing.
Can I get my vision lost from glaucoma?
Unfortunately, vision loss from glaucoma is usually permanent. But treatment can stop you from losing more vision.
Are eye drops safe for long-term use?
Yes, with the supervision of a physician, most glaucoma medications are safe for long-term use.
How often should I be screened?
If you are over 40 and at risk you should have an eye exam every 1 to 2 years.
Is surgery painful?
Most modern glaucoma surgeries are performed under local anesthesia and are pain-free.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
If you are noticing halos, feeling unexplained pressure in your eyes, or simply have not had your eyes checked in years, this is the perfect opportunity to take action. Glaucoma will not tell you it is coming, but it will take your sight without you knowing it.
Book a consultation today in our clinic in Delhi. We are ready to help you preserve your vision with professional assessment and a management program that fits into your life.