Glaucoma Symptoms Appear After Vision Loss

Glaucoma involves optic nerve damage that worsens over time. It is caused by the buildup of fluid, which adds pressure that causes irreparable damage. It can result in blindness.

Glaucoma symptoms start as a loss of peripheral vision because it deteriorates before central vision loss. Once side vision loss occurs, vision loss has already taken place, but the other eye has been making up the difference. By the time symptoms appear, however, the glaucoma is already is in advanced stage. That’s why regular eye exams are so important as a way of practicing preventive eye care.

Other symptoms may occur, including:

• Cloudy vision
• Severe eye pain in either eye
• Feeling nauseous
• Having red eye
• Experiencing a headache centralized over the eyebrow

Treatment of glaucoma depends on the severity of the disease. While an ophthalmologist can prescribe liquid eye drops to help relieve the pressure, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem. Though surgery is useful for improving the flow of fluid in the eye and getting rid of the pressure that causes the problem, it can’t repair vision once it’s lost.

Though infants can be affected by glaucoma, those most as risk are over 40 with a family history of the disease. Diabetes, nearsightedness, high blood pressure, eye injuries, and the use of steroids can increase the chances of getting glaucoma. Early detection is key for preserving eye sight and preventing more damage. A quick and painless test is recommended every 2-3 years to detect glaucoma.