Why Glaucoma Often Has No Early Symptoms
In its earliest stages, glaucoma may not cause any noticeable changes in your vision. That’s because the condition usually starts with peripheral (side) vision loss, which develops gradually. Your brain can adapt, masking the change until significant damage has occurred.
That’s why regular comprehensive eye exams are the only reliable way to detect glaucoma early.
Who Is at Risk for Glaucoma?
You may be at higher risk if you:
- Are over 60 (over 40 for African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, or Asians)
- Have a family history of glaucoma
- Have elevated eye pressure (intraocular pressure)
- Have thin corneas or optic nerve changes
- Have diabetes, high blood pressure, or poor circulation
- Have had an eye injury or prior eye surgery
- Take long-term steroid medications
Early Glaucoma Symptoms
You may notice one or more of these subtle signs:
- Gradual loss of side (peripheral) vision
- Blurred vision in one or both eyes
- Trouble seeing at night
- Needing more light to read or focus
- Difficulty adjusting to dark rooms
Advanced Glaucoma Symptoms
As glaucoma progresses, symptoms become more noticeable and may include:
- Tunnel vision (only central vision remains)
- Blank spots in your vision
- Halos around lights
- Severe eye pain (more common in angle-closure glaucoma)
- Sudden vision loss (medical emergency)
- Headaches, nausea, and vomiting (in acute cases)
When to Seek Immediate Medical Care at American Eye Associates
If you ever experience sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, halos around lights, or blurred vision accompanied by headache, nausea, or vomiting, seek emergency eye care immediately.
These symptoms may indicate angle-closure glaucoma, a serious and fast-progressing form of glaucoma that can cause permanent blindness within hours if untreated.