Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss if not treated in time. It affects the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain & can gradually cause blindness. Unfortunately, the signs of glaucoma often go unnoticed until significant damage has already been done. That's why it's important to understand the common symptoms of glaucoma & get regular eye check-ups. The earlier it is detected, the better the chances of saving your vision. There are different types of glaucoma & each one can have varying symptoms. Some forms of glaucoma develop slowly, while others can progress very quickly. Knowing the symptoms can help you identify the condition early on & seek timely glaucoma treatment. With that being said, today in this blog, we’ll explore seven common symptoms of glaucoma that you should be aware of.

1. Loss of Peripheral Vision

One of the most noticeable symptoms of glaucoma is the gradual loss of peripheral or side vision. People may find it difficult to see objects to the side while focusing straight ahead. This can be dangerous, especially when driving or walking, as you might not see objects or people coming from the sides. If you notice this happening, it is essential to consult an eye specialist

2. Blurred Vision

Blurred vision is another common symptom of glaucoma. In some cases, you might feel like you are looking through a foggy window. This blurriness can affect your daily activities like reading, watching TV, or working on the computer. It’s important to remember that not all blurred vision is due to glaucoma, but if it is persistent, you should get your eyes checked.

3. Eye Pain

Eye pain is more common in certain types of glaucoma, such as acute angle-closure glaucoma. This type of glaucoma can come on suddenly & cause intense pain in the eyes. The pain might feel like a headache or a sharp, stabbing sensation around the eyes. If you experience severe eye pain, it could be a sign of glaucoma & should be checked immediately by a doctor.

4. Seeing Halos Around Lights

If you notice halos or rainbow-colored rings around lights, especially at night, this could be a sign of glaucoma. This symptom often occurs because of increased pressure in the eye, which affects the way light is processed. Seeing halos can be alarming & can affect activities like night driving.

5. Redness in the Eyes

Persistent redness in the eyes can be another symptom of glaucoma. While redness can also be due to allergies or infections, it could indicate a problem with the eye's drainage system in the case of glaucoma. If you have unexplained redness that doesn’t go away, it’s advisable to consult an eye doctor.

6. Nausea & Vomiting

Though it may seem surprising, nausea & vomiting can be associated with certain types of glaucoma, particularly acute angle-closure glaucoma. When eye pressure increases suddenly, it can cause severe headaches, leading to nausea & vomiting. This symptom often accompanies other signs like blurred vision & halos around lights.

7. Frequent Changes in Prescription Glasses

If you find yourself needing frequent changes in your glasses or contact lens prescription, it could be a symptom of glaucoma. As the condition progresses, it can change the way your eyes focus, making it harder to see clearly with your current prescription. Regular eye exams can help detect this issue & provide timely glaucoma treatment.

Conclusion

Glaucoma is a condition that requires early detection & treatment to prevent vision loss. Being aware of the common symptoms of glaucoma—like loss of peripheral vision, blurred vision, eye pain, halos around lights, eye redness, nausea, & frequent changes in prescription—can help you take action early. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a specialist as soon as possible. For those looking for an expert clinic for glaucoma treatment, Anand Netralaya is a trusted option. At Anand Netralaya, we have experienced professionals who can provide the right care & guidance to protect your vision.