Glaucoma 101: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Vision 

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Introduction

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide, yet many people don’t realize they have it until permanent vision loss has already occurred. Often called the “silent thief of sight,” this group of eye conditions typically develops without warning signs, gradually damaging the optic nerve over time. Because of its subtle onset and serious consequences, understanding glaucoma is essential for protecting your long-term eye health.

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about glaucoma—what it is, what causes it, who’s at risk, and the symptoms to watch for. We’ll also cover how it’s diagnosed, available treatment options, and when to see an eye doctor. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or want to be proactive about your vision, this guide will give you the knowledge you need to take control of your eye health.

What Is Glaucoma and Why Is It So Dangerous?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve due to high intraocular pressure. This nerve is the connection between the eyes and the brain. Early stages of glaucoma often lack noticeable symptoms, making it particularly dangerous. When vision loss occurs, the damage is usually irreversible. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness. Therefore, regular eye check-ups are vital to prevent permanent vision damage due to its silent progression.

What Are the Different Types of Glaucoma?

There are several types of glaucoma, each affecting the eye differently. The most common form is open-angle glaucoma, when the drainage canals in the eye become clogged over time, leading to increased eye pressure. This type develops slowly and painlessly, often going unnoticed until peripheral vision deteriorates. Another form, angle-closure glaucoma, is much less common but more urgent. It happens when the iris bulges forward and blocks the eye’s drainage angle, causing a sudden spike in intraocular pressure. Symptoms may include severe eye pain, nausea, blurred vision, and seeing halos around lights—making it a true medical emergency.

Other types of glaucoma include normal-tension glaucoma, where optic nerve damage occurs despite normal eye pressure levels and congenital glaucoma, a rare condition present at birth due to improper development of the eye’s drainage system. Secondary glaucoma can result from an injury, inflammation, tumor, or as a side effect of medications like corticosteroids. Each type of glaucoma may require a different treatment approach, which is why accurate diagnosis through a comprehensive eye exam is so important.

What Causes Glaucoma and Who Is at Risk?

Glaucoma is primarily caused by increased pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP), which can damage the optic nerve over time. This pressure builds up when the fluid in the eye (called aqueous humor) doesn’t drain properly through the eye’s drainage system. However, not all cases of glaucoma are linked to high eye pressure. Some people develop the condition even with normal IOP, suggesting that other factors like poor blood flow to the optic nerve may also play a role.

Certain individuals are at higher risk of developing glaucoma. Age is a significant factor—people over 60 are more susceptible, especially if there’s a family history of the condition. Ethnicity also plays a role, with African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians facing higher risks for specific types of glaucoma. Other risk factors include having diabetes, high blood pressure, or extreme nearsightedness, as well as prolonged use of steroid medications.

What Are the Symptoms of Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can progress without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, as the condition advances, sure warning signs may appear, depending on the type of glaucoma. Here are the most common symptoms to watch for:

  • Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision – Often the first sign of open-angle glaucoma, and it can go unnoticed until significant vision is lost.
  • Tunnel vision – In advanced stages, vision may narrow dramatically.
  • Eye pain or pressure – More common in angle-closure glaucoma, which can come on suddenly.
  • Severe headache – A sign of rapidly increasing eye pressure in acute cases.
  • Blurred vision – May occur intermittently or suddenly during an angle-closure attack.
  • Halos around lights – Especially noticeable at night and may indicate elevated eye pressure.
  • Redness in the eye – Can accompany discomfort and is often a sign something is wrong.
  • Nausea or vomiting – Often paired with intense eye pain during a sudden glaucoma attack.

If you experience any of these symptoms—especially suddenly—it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention, as untreated glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss.

How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?

Glaucoma is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam that includes several specialized tests to evaluate eye pressure, optic nerve health, and visual field. One of the most common tests is tonometry, which measures intraocular pressure. Your eye doctor may also perform ophthalmoscopy to examine the optic nerve for signs of damage and perimetry, a visual field test, to detect blind spots in your peripheral vision. Additional tests like pachymetry (to measure corneal thickness) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) (to capture detailed images of the optic nerve) may also be used. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for preventing irreversible vision loss, so regular eye exams are important—especially if you’re at higher risk.

What Are the Treatment Options for Glaucoma?

Treatment for glaucoma focuses on lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) to prevent further damage to the optic nerve. While the condition cannot be cured, early and consistent treatment can help preserve vision and slow its progression. Depending on the type and severity of glaucoma, treatment options may include medications, laser therapy, or surgery.

1. Prescription Eye Drops

These are usually the first line of treatment and work by reducing fluid production in the eye or improving drainage.

2. Oral Medications

Sometimes used alongside eye drops, these medications help lower eye pressure when drops alone are ineffective.

3. Laser Treatments

Procedures like laser trabeculoplasty or iridotomy improve fluid drainage and are often used for open-angle or angle-closure glaucoma.

4. Surgical Options

When medications and laser treatments aren’t enough, surgeries like trabeculectomy or the insertion of drainage implants can help control eye pressure long-term.

When Should You See an Eye Doctor About Glaucoma?

You should see an eye doctor about glaucoma if you have risk factors such as a family history, are over age 60, or have conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. Additionally, seek care immediately if you experience sudden vision changes, eye pain, halos around lights, or blurred vision. Even without symptoms, regular comprehensive eye exams are essential for detection and prevention of vision loss.

How Can Golden Vision Help You Treat Glaucoma?

At Golden Vision, our experienced eye care team uses the latest diagnostic technology to detect glaucoma in its earliest stages and create personalized treatment plans to help your vision. From prescription eye drops and advanced imaging to laser procedures and surgical referrals, we offer comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs. If you’re at risk or experiencing symptoms, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step toward preserving your sight.

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While glaucoma cannot always be prevented, regular eye exams can help detect it early before significant damage occurs. Managing health conditions like high blood pressure may also help lower your risk.
Accordion Content
Glaucoma usually affects both eyes, though it may start in one and progress differently in another. Regular monitoring helps track changes in both eyes over time.

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