Could You Be at Risk for Glaucoma? Here's What to Look For

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can progress without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. It’s one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. But with early detection and proper management, vision loss from glaucoma can often be prevented.

Understanding Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to high intraocular pressure (IOP). Over time, this pressure can impair your peripheral vision and eventually affect your central vision as well.

There are two main types:

Open-angle glaucoma – the most common form, it progresses slowly and painlessly.
Angle-closure glaucoma – less common but more urgent, it can cause sudden symptoms and requires immediate treatment.

Risk Factors to Know

You could be at higher risk for glaucoma if you have one or more of the following:

Age 60 and older (or over 40 if you're African American or Hispanic)
Family history of glaucoma
High eye pressure (IOP)
Thin corneas
Chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease
Long-term use of corticosteroids
Severe nearsightedness or farsightedness

Even without these risk factors, glaucoma can still develop - making regular eye exams critical.

Symptoms to Watch For

Most types of glaucoma develop without early symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, you may notice:

Gradual loss of peripheral vision
Blurry or hazy vision
Halos around lights
Eye pain or pressure
Nausea or vomiting accompanied by eye discomfort

If you experience sudden vision changes or intense eye pain, seek emergency care immediately.

Why Regular Medical Eye Exams Are Essential

Because glaucoma can progress without noticeable symptoms, routine eye exams are your best defense against vision loss. Early detection is key, and medical eye exams play a critical role in identifying signs of glaucoma before permanent damage occurs.

During a thorough eye exam, your optometrist will perform several tests. These include measuring your intraocular pressure to check for elevated levels, which can indicate glaucoma risk. They will also examine your optic nerve for any signs of damage or abnormalities.

In addition, your visual field will be tested to detect any subtle loss of peripheral vision. The doctor will also evaluate the internal structure of your eye to ensure everything appears healthy and functioning properly. Together, these evaluations provide a complete picture of your eye health and help detect glaucoma in its earliest stages, often before you experience any changes in your vision.

Protect Your Sight at Doc Eye

Glaucoma may be silent, but it’s not invisible to a trained eye. Knowing your risk factors and staying on top of regular medical eye exams can protect your sight for years to come. At Doc Eye, we’re committed to safeguarding your vision with thorough evaluations and personalized care.

Schedule a medical eye exam with Doc Eye and take the first step in protecting your sight from glaucoma. Visit our office in Waterford, Connecticut, or call (860) 499-3500 to book an appointment today.