5 Early Signs of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a debilitating eye condition that leads to irreversible vision loss. It affects millions worldwide. It results from increased pressure in the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP).

Most people call glaucoma the silent thief of sight since it gives no early warning signs. By the time you notice signs of the disease, like vision loss, the increased intraocular pressure will have caused permanent and significant damage to your optic nerve. The optic nerve plays a vital role. It sends visual information from your eye to the brain. As such, it affects your sight if it becomes damaged.

Fortunately, glaucoma has early signs that can help prevent the disease from progressing further if detected early. Early detection helps with prompt treatment. It prevents vision loss and glaucoma progression. Read on to learn the five early signs of glaucoma to help you save your vision.

Increased Intraocular Pressure

High intraocular pressure can increase your risk of glaucoma. It can damage your optic nerve and cause vision loss. But note that not every person with glaucoma has high intraocular pressure. 

Additionally, an increased IOP does not necessarily mean you will get glaucoma. There are people with low intraocular pressure who still develop glaucoma. Regular eye exams are necessary to help your eye doctor monitor the pressure in your eye and determine if you have early signs of glaucoma.

Loss of Peripheral Vision

As a silent thief of sight, glaucoma gradually damages the peripherl visual field. Your peripheral vision helps detect changes in your environment and eye movement. It is outside your central focus. Glaucoma impairs your peripheral view, making you miss the changes in your surroundings. Routine eye exams help detect this loss early to protect your optic nerve from more damage.

Sudden Vision Changes

Experiencing sudden changes in your vision could be an early sign of glaucoma. It may include seeing halos around light and double, hazy, or blurred vision. They often result from fluid building up in your eye, causing the pressure within the eye to increase. Again, increased eye pressure can cause vision loss by damaging your optic nerve. Seek immediate medical help if you experience sudden vision changes.

Discomfort or Pain in the Eye

Early stages of glaucoma can cause discomfort or pain in your eye. It often results from increased intraocular pressure on your optic nerve. You may also experience headaches. You may experience pain in your temples or in front of your eye. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these discomforts.

Nausea and Vomiting

People with glaucoma can experience nausea and vomiting as early signs of the condition. The symptoms often occur with eye pain and headache caused by increased intraocular pressure. The high IOP often causes discomfort and leads to nausea and vomiting.

Seek immediate medical attention if you suffer any of these symptoms. Doing so will ensure you receive prompt treatment and preserve your vision.

For more about glaucoma, visit Custom Eyes Optical at our office in Selden, New York. Call (631) 230-6230 to book an appointment today.