What Are the Early Warning Signs of Glaucoma to Look Out For?

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can develop without obvious symptoms until significant vision loss has already occurred. Understanding what glaucoma is, recognizing its early warning signs, and prioritizing regular medical eye exams are all critical steps in protecting your vision.
 

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the part of your eye responsible for sending visual information to the brain. This damage is often caused by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), but glaucoma can also occur with normal eye pressure. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss or even blindness.
 

There are several types of glaucoma, but the two most common are:
 

• Open-angle glaucoma: The most common form, which develops gradually as drainage channels become less efficient over time.
• Angle-closure glaucoma: A less common, but more acute form that can cause a sudden rise in eye pressure and requires immediate medical attention.

Who Is at Risk?

Anyone can develop glaucoma, but certain factors can increase your risk, including:
 

• Age over 60
• A family history of glaucoma
• African, Hispanic, or Asian descent
• Elevated intraocular pressure
• Thin corneas
• Chronic eye inflammation or trauma
• Medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or migraines

Because glaucoma can go unnoticed for years, those in higher-risk groups should be especially vigilant about scheduling eye exams.
 

Why Regular Medical Eye Exams Are Essential

Glaucoma often causes no pain or noticeable changes in vision during its early stages. A comprehensive eye exam is the only way to detect the disease in its earliest stages. During these exams, we check your eye pressure, examine the optic nerve, test your visual field, and assess the overall health of your eyes. Catching glaucoma early can help preserve your vision with treatments like medicated eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery.
 

Early Signs of Glaucoma to Watch For

While early glaucoma is typically symptom-free, here are some potential warning signs that should never be ignored:
 

• Gradual loss of peripheral vision, especially in open-angle glaucoma
• Blurry vision or difficulty focusing
• Halos around lights, particularly at night
• Eye pain or pressure, often a sign of angle-closure glaucoma
• Redness in the eye
• Nausea or vomiting accompanied by severe eye pain

These symptoms may also be associated with other eye conditions, but any changes in your vision should prompt a visit to an eye care professional.
 

Protect Your Vision with Expert Care

Glaucoma is a serious condition that can cause irreversible vision loss if not detected and managed early. Understanding the risk factors and signs can make all the difference. Regular eye exams with a trusted optometrist are the best defense in protecting your vision for years to come.
 

Protect your vision and stay ahead of glaucoma with a medical eye exam at Drs. Stein and Goldschneider. Visit our office in Blackwood, New Jersey, or call (856) 408-1800 to book an appointment today.