Does Glaucoma Have Symptoms or Warning Signs?
Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. Often referred to as the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma can develop without noticeable symptoms, making it difficult for you to know if you have the condition until significant damage has already occurred.
This is why understanding the nature of glaucoma, its potential warning signs and the importance of regular eye exams is crucial for maintaining healthy vision. Keep reading to learn more about glaucoma and its possible symptoms!
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can cause progressive damage to the optic nerve, which is the vital connection between the eye and the brain. This damage is often caused by increased pressure within the eye, known as intraocular pressure or IOP.
Increased eye pressure happens when there is too much fluid inside the eye. This can happen due to an overproduction of fluid or a blockage in the outflow of fluid.
Since your eye is constantly creating fluid, this fluid must cycle out of the eye to maintain healthy eye pressure levels. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to vision loss and even blindness.
What Are the Warning Signs of Glaucoma?
One of the most challenging aspects of glaucoma is that it often develops without noticeable symptoms, especially in its early stages. This is why glaucoma is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight.”
However, as the condition progresses, some warning signs may appear:
- Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
- Seeing halos around lights
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Redness in the eye
- Blurred vision
- Tunnel vision (in advanced stages)
It is important to note that these symptoms may not occur in all cases, and just because you don’t have these symptoms, it does not necessarily mean you do not have glaucoma. Regular eye exams are the best way to detect glaucoma early and prevent vision loss.
How Can You Tell if You Have Glaucoma?
The best way to determine if you have glaucoma is through a comprehensive eye exam with your eye doctor at Berg Feinfield Vision Correction. During the exam, your eye doctor will:
- Measure your intraocular pressure (tonometry)
- Inspect the drainage angle of your eye (gonioscopy)
- Evaluate your optic nerve for damage (ophthalmoscopy)
- Test your peripheral vision (visual field test)
- Measure the thickness of your cornea (pachymetry)
These tests are painless and non-invasive, and they provide your eye doctor with the information needed to determine your risk for glaucoma and plan the best course of treatment, if necessary.
Could I Be at Risk For Glaucoma?
Several factors can increase your risk of developing glaucoma, such as:
Age
The risk of glaucoma increases with age, particularly after sixty.
Family History
Having a family member with glaucoma increases your risk.
Race
African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians are at a higher risk for certain types of glaucoma.
Certain Medical Conditions
Diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can increase your risk.
Eye Injuries
Trauma to the eye can lead to glaucoma.
Prolonged Corticosteroid Use
Long-term use of corticosteroids, particularly eye drops, can increase your risk.
If you have any of these risk factors, it is especially important to have regular eye exams to monitor your eye health and detect any signs of glaucoma early.
At Berg Feinfield Vision Correction, we understand the importance of early detection and treatment of glaucoma. Our experienced team of eye care professionals is dedicated to providing comprehensive eye exams and state-of-the-art treatment options to help preserve your vision.
Do you have questions about glaucoma or want to determine if you may be at risk? Schedule an appointment at Berg Feinfield Vision Correction in Burbank, CA, today!
