Early Signs That Glaucoma Is Developing and What to Do

Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that can lead to vision loss and is caused by damage to the optic nerve. Fluid buildup in the eye increases pressure (intraocular pressure) that damages the nerve over time.

Sometimes, glaucoma develops even with normal eye pressure and is a relatively common age-related condition. If not treated, glaucoma can lead to irreversible vision loss or blindness. Learn the early signs that glaucoma is developing and what to do.

Causes of Glaucoma

Glaucoma can be caused by various factors, the most common being intraocular eye pressure. The eyes produce aqueous humor, a fluid that helps keep them healthy. It flows to the front of the eye through the pupil. In healthy eyes, the fluid drains through a canal; between the cornea and the iris.


If the drainage channel becomes clogged with deposits, the fluid cannot flow out, leading to buildup. It puts excessive pressure on the eye, damaging the optic nerve and leading to glaucoma. Damage from glaucoma is irreversible, making treatment vital.

Signs of Developing Glaucoma

In most cases, glaucoma comes on gradually with no warning signs. People who develop open-angle glaucoma do not experience early symptoms, and the disease is usually detected during an eye exam. Closed-angle glaucoma has severe symptoms that typically come on suddenly. The signs include:

 

• Headaches
   

• Eye pressure or pain
   

• Blurred vision, low vision, or blind spots
   

• Red eyes
   

• Halos around lights
   

• Nausea or vomiting
   

Risk Factors for Glaucoma

Glaucoma can affect anyone, but the risk increases as individuals age and is more common among certain races. Individuals of African and Latin origin are more likely to develop glaucoma. Asians are more likely to get angle closure glaucoma. Other risk factors include:

 

• Having diabetes
   

• A family history of glaucoma
   

• Having high blood pressure
   

• Being farsighted (hyperopia) increases the risk of closed-angle glaucoma
   

• Being nearsighted or myopic increases the risk of open-angle glaucoma
   

• Previous eye surgery or injury
   

• Prolonged use of corticosteroids

Diagnosing Glaucoma

Prompt diagnosis is vital for getting glaucoma treatment. Regular eye exams at the Great Eye Doctor of Burleson help detect the disease in the early stages. The doctor will conduct several tests to check for glaucoma. The tests include a dilated eye exam, gonioscopy, optical coherence tomography (OCT), ocular pressure test (tonometry), and pachymetry. The doctor will also conduct visual acuity tests, field tests, and a slit-lamp exam.

Managing and Treating Glaucoma

If not treated, glaucoma can lead to permanent loss of vision. It is crucial to get immediate medical attention if you experience vision problems, eye pain, or severe headaches. Treatment options include eye drops or prescription medications, laser treatment to drain eye fluid, and surgery to reduce eye pressure. The doctor will recommend the best treatment depending on the type and stage of glaucoma. 

Glaucoma is a progressive and chronic condition that causes vision loss with time. It usually affects both eyes but can be worse in one eye. About 10 percent of people with glaucoma develop irreversible visual impairment. Early detection is the best way to protect your vision. Regular glaucoma testing is vital, especially if you are at high risk of developing the disease.

For more about early signs of glaucoma, visit the Great Eye Doctor of Burleson at our Burleson, Texas, office. Call (817) 295-0186 to schedule an appointment today.