Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss if not treated. Many people call it the “eye pressure disease” because it often involves high pressure inside the eye. Early detection of glaucoma symptoms is important. With the right glaucoma treatment, you can protect your sight. In this guide, you will learn about glaucoma, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and ways to prevent it.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. The optic nerve sends images from your eye to your brain. Often, high pressure inside the eye causes this damage. However, some people get glaucoma even with normal eye pressure. Over time, glaucoma can lead to vision loss or even blindness. According to the World Health Organization, glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. Since glaucoma often has no early warning signs, regular eye exams are important.

Common Symptoms of Glaucoma

At first, glaucoma may not cause any symptoms. As the disease gets worse, you may notice changes in your vision. Early detection is key. Watch for these common glaucoma symptoms:

Blurred vision

Loss of side (peripheral) vision

Seeing halos around lights

Eye pain or pressure

Redness in the eye

Sudden vision loss (in rare cases)

If you notice any of these symptoms, see an eye doctor right away. Quick action can help prevent further damage.

Causes and Risk Factors

Glaucoma often happens when fluid builds up in the front part of the eye. This extra fluid increases eye pressure, which can harm the optic nerve. However, not everyone with high eye pressure gets glaucoma. Several factors can raise your risk:

Age over 40

Family history of glaucoma

High eye pressure

Diabetes

Severe eye injury

Long-term use of steroid medicines

Thin corneas

Being of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent

Because some risk factors cannot be changed, regular eye checks are important for everyone, especially as you age.

How Glaucoma is Diagnosed

Doctors use several tests to diagnose glaucoma. Early diagnosis can help save your vision. Here are common ways doctors check for glaucoma:

Measuring eye pressure (tonometry)

Examining the optic nerve

Testing side (peripheral) vision

Measuring cornea thickness

Inspecting the eye’s drainage angle

Usually, these tests are quick and painless. Regular eye exams are the best way to catch glaucoma early.

Treatment Options for Glaucoma

While there is no cure for glaucoma, treatment can slow or stop vision loss. The main goal is to lower eye pressure. Treatment options include:

Prescription eye drops to reduce eye pressure

Oral medicines (pills) if drops are not enough

Laser therapy to help fluid drain from the eye

Surgery to create a new drainage path

Your doctor will choose the best treatment based on your needs. With regular care, many people keep their vision for life.

Tips for Prevention and Eye Health

Although you cannot always prevent glaucoma, you can lower your risk. Try these tips for healthy eyes:

Get regular eye exams, especially after age 40

Know your family history of eye diseases

Protect your eyes from injury

Manage health problems like diabetes and high blood pressure

Use eye drops as prescribed by your doctor

Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables

Exercise regularly, but avoid activities that raise eye pressure

By following these steps, you can help protect your vision and catch problems early.

In summary, glaucoma is a serious eye condition caused by increased eye pressure, and it can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated in time. Because symptoms often appear late, early detection and regular screening are crucial.

For personalised guidance, accurate diagnosis, and advanced glaucoma management, consult the eye specialists at Nethraa Eye Hospital.

Protect your sight—early care makes all the difference.