Glaucoma: symptoms in glaucoma

Understanding Glaucoma: Symptoms and Early Warning Signs

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to abnormally high pressure in the eye. It is one of the leading causes of blindness for people over the age of 60. Early detection and treatment can help prevent severe vision loss. Understanding the symptoms of glaucoma is crucial for early diagnosis and management.

Common Symptoms of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because many of its forms do not exhibit immediate symptoms, making regular eye examinations in the UK essential. Some common symptoms to look out for include:

• Peripheral Vision Loss: Reduced peripheral vision or tunnel vision is one of the most noticeable symptoms of advanced glaucoma.
• Blurred Vision: Many patients experience blurred vision, particularly in the early stages.
• Eye Pain: Severe eye pain can occur, especially in cases of acute angle-closure glaucoma.
• Headaches: Persistent headaches, particularly around the eyes, may indicate increasing eye pressure.
• Halos Around Lights: Seeing rainbow-coloured halos around lights is a common symptom, especially in low light conditions.
• Redness in the Eye: Redness can occur, indicating inflammation or high eye pressure.
• Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms, along with severe eye pain, could indicate acute angle-closure glaucoma, a medical emergency.

Importance of Early Detection

Due to the often-silent progression of glaucoma, regular eye check-ups are crucial for early detection, particularly for those over 40, or with a family history of the condition. In the UK, the NHS recommends routine eye tests every two years, or more frequently if you're at risk. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent vision loss and help maintain a good quality of life.

Conclusion

Understanding the symptoms of glaucoma can lead to prompt diagnosis and treatment, preserving vision and preventing serious outcomes. If you experience any symptoms of glaucoma, contact a healthcare professional or optometrist in the UK immediately. Regular eye examinations, especially with age, are key to catching this condition early.