7 Signs You May Have Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of diseases characterized by fluid buildup in the front part of the eye, which results in pressure and damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve is responsible for transmitting messages from the back of the eye to the brain. The most common type is called primary open-angle. It occurs when the eye does not drain fluid as it should. Although it is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in people over the age of sixty, glaucoma can be treated when caught early. Here are the signs and symptoms to look out for.

7. Sudden Blurry Vision

Unlike primary open-angle glaucoma, which does not typically produce symptoms at first, sudden blurry vision may be a sign of an acute attack of angle-closure glaucoma, otherwise known as close-angle or narrow-angle glaucoma. It occurs when the iris blocks the eye’s drainage angle, and fluid accumulates in front of the eye. When this happens, eye pressure builds up quickly and causes sudden blurry vision, severe eye pain, a headache, or nausea. An acute attack requires immediate medical attention to prevent further damage.

6. Seeing Rainbows Or Halos

Due to the buildup of fluid in front of the eye, people with glaucoma might see rainbows or halos when looking at lights, especially at night. This can make driving a dangerous task. If bright lights, dim lights, or any lighting causes the appearance of halos, rainbows, spots or "ghosts," seek immediate treatment. Avoid drinking at night as this might increase the risk of accidents due to the inability to focus when headlights from other vehicles or stoplights cause vision problems.

5. Loss Of Side Or Peripheral Vision

Open-angle glaucoma does not have many warning signs or symptoms before permanent damage occurs. One of the first and only early signals is the loss of side or peripheral vision, which is a person’s field of vision on the side of the eye when looking straight ahead. Seek immediate treatment if side vision becomes blurred or starts losing its strength as this may be the only indication of early onset glaucoma. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to permanent vision loss.

4. Severe Eye Or Head Pain

Headaches can appear for no reason at all; however, eye pain could be an indication of glaucoma. When both appear at the same time, seek immediate medical help. Fluid retention in the eye may cause pressure that eventually leads to pain. Even if vision loss has not occurred yet, eye pain should be checked out immediately to avoid irreversible damage. Even eye pain that does not affect vision may also cause a headache due to the inability or strain on the eyes to focus.

3. Nausea Or Vomiting Accompanied By Eye Pain

Problems with vision or focusing may cause nausea or vomiting. Nausea is a general symptom with many causes; however, nausea that accompanies eye pain may be due to glaucoma. Severe eye or head pain and vision loss can all result in nausea. Eye pressure may cause pain or nausea induced vomiting and dizziness, which makes it hard to concentrate or focus on an object. Sensitivity to light may also cause nausea and should be checked out right away.

2. Physical Changes In Eye Appearance

Some patients with glaucoma can expect to see visual changes to their eyes as the disease progresses. These may include a change in the color of the iris or the thin, circular structure in the eye, and red-rimming, swollen, or encrusted eyelids. Dry, itchy, red eyes or constant watering may also be a sign of glaucoma. It should be noted that cloudy eyes usually refer to cataracts; however, any physical change in the appearance of eyes could detect a vision problem.

1. Sudden Loss Of Sight

Most causes of glaucoma include gradual vision loss, which can be hard to detect. Even after vision loss is detected, the disease may have already done permanent damage that cannot be reversed. Seek immediate help at the first sign of gradual vision loss, especially if over the age of sixty years old. Constant blinking or the use of eye drops to clear the eyes and make the vision more focused might be a sign of gradual vision loss.