Glaucoma is among the main causes of blindness worldwide. The condition damages the optic nerve responsible for sending visual information to the brain from the eyes. Unfortunately, it has no cure. 

Once vision loss occurs, it is irreversible. You can slow or prevent further damage to the optic nerve through early detection and treatment of glaucoma. Continue reading this article to learn the common symptoms of glaucoma.

No Symptoms in the Early Stages

Many people with glaucoma are unaware that they have the condition during its early stages due to a lack of symptoms. It only becomes apparent when there is significant optic nerve damage. It’s why regular eye exams are vital, even if you have no noticeable signs of glaucoma. 
 

During these exams, your eye doctor will measure the pressure inside your eyes and check the health of your optic nerve to detect if you have glaucoma in its early stages.

Peripheral Vision Loss

Optic nerve damage caused by glaucoma typically begins in the peripheral vision areas and gradually progresses inwards. Patients with the condition notice they can see things directly before them, but objects in their peripheral vision appear distorted or blurry. 
 

The situation can make navigating in crowded areas or reading very difficult. Untreated peripheral vision loss progresses to tunnel vision, where your field of vision becomes increasingly narrow.

Patchy Blind Spots

Glaucoma can make you experience patchy blind spots in your visual field. The blind spots may always be present or come and go. You may not notice them until they become more significant. Routine eye exams can help your eye doctor identify these blind spots before they become too large.

Halos Around Lights

Patients with glaucoma may notice halos around lights, especially at night. These halos appear in rainbow-colored circles around lights. They result from the pressure in the eye that causes light to scatter and create halos. Halos around lights can make driving at night difficult. You may struggle to see other vehicles and road signs.

Blurred Vision

Patients with glaucoma experience blurred vision as the condition progresses, even when looking directly at objects. Seeing details clearly or reading can become difficult. Blurred vision can occur in one or both eyes and may have other symptoms, such as eye pain or redness. Schedule an appointment with your eye doctor as soon as possible if you notice sudden changes in your vision.

Eye Pain or Redness

Eye pain or redness is a sign of glaucoma. It occurs due to increased pressure in the eye. Headaches or nausea can also occur in severe cases. It is vital to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor. They can check if this is a sign of a chronic eye condition.

Changes in Eye Appearance
 

Patients may notice changes in the appearance of their eyes as glaucoma progresses. The iris may appear smaller, and the eyes look swollen or bulging. These changes often occur due to increased pressure in the eye and can be a sign of advanced glaucoma. 
 

See your specialist for a comprehensive eye exam if you notice these changes. Doing so will help with prompt treatment and slow the condition’s progression.
 

For more about glaucoma, visit Today’s Vision Bulverde at our office in San Antonio, Texas. Call (210) 307-4749 to book an appointment today.