5 Early Symptoms of Glaucoma

Do you find yourself experiencing blurred vision or not being able to see objects sideways or in your peripheral view? If so, you may be experiencing a condition called glaucoma, which can result in vision loss if it is left untreated. Glaucoma happens when there is a buildup of fluid in the eye that damages the optic nerve, which is the conduit that transmits images from the retina to the brain. When the optic nerve is damaged or gradually deteriorates, blind spots occur in the visual field.

Most forms of glaucoma do not have warning signs. The effects of glaucoma are so gradual that the change in vision is not noticeable until the advanced stage. Because glaucoma vision loss is irreversible so, it is vital to know the signs. Below are the top five symptoms or signs of glaucoma:

1. Decreased vision or blurred vision
The most apparent sign of glaucoma is blurred vision and blind spots, which are tiny portions of the field in the eyes. Blind spots match the position of the optic disks in the eye retina.

2. Eye redness
Redness of the eye is caused by glaucoma and other conditions, such as pinkeye or an infection. However, if it is accompanied by eye pain, the cause can be acute glaucoma.

3. Headache
Severe pain in the eye or forehead are symptoms of glaucoma, and they tend to develop quickly.

4. Seeing rainbows or halos
Seeing rainbow-colored circles, halos of bright lights and sensitivity to light can be a symptom of glaucoma.

5. Nausea and vomiting
As a result of sharp eye pain, vomiting and nausea can be symptoms of glaucoma.

According to studies done by the (CDCP) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, glaucoma is among the principal causes of vision loss or blindness in America. Glaucoma is also the leading cause of vision loss in people over 60. Early treatments and diagnosis is the key to preventing vision loss. There are two main types of glaucoma:

Primary open-angle glaucoma: This type of glaucoma is the most common type. It affects more than 2 million Americans. This disease affects the trabecular meshwork, which is the drainage system of the eye. When fluids do not drain correctly, the eye pressure builds to critical levels. Primary open-angle glaucoma symptoms progress slowly, and patients may not be aware of them.

Acute angle-closure glaucoma: This type of glaucoma is the result of excess fluids in the eye. Acute angle-closure glaucoma happens when an inflated iris hinders the movement of fluid in the point between the iris and cornea. Unlike open-angle glaucoma symptoms, acute angle-closure glaucoma patients symptoms appear suddenly.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or signs, you should see your doctor or optometrist for an eye exam to confirm a diagnosis for your symptoms. Glaucoma can be treated by decreasing intraocular pressure in the eye. Your eye exams should include measurements of the pressure in the eye. If the measurement of eye pressure is made early and treated adequately, vision loss or blindness can be prevented or slowed. If your diagnosis is glaucoma, you will need treatment for life and you should find the best treatment for your condition. Some treatment options include: