Introduction
Glaucoma symptoms can be subtle in the early stages, making this condition a silent yet serious threat to vision. It is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it develops slowly and usually does not show noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. Many people do not realize they have symptoms of glaucoma until the disease has already progressed.
At Siddhi Eye Care Centre, Dr. Soumya Shetty and her team specialize in diagnosing and providing treatment of glaucoma. This blog will help you understand symptoms of glaucoma, why early detection is important, and what treatment options are available to protect your vision.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the part of the eye responsible for sending images to the brain. This damage is usually caused by increased pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). If left untreated, glaucoma symptoms can worsen, leading to vision loss and, eventually, blindness.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 76 million people worldwide suffer from glaucoma, and this number is expected to rise to over 111 million by 2040. It is one of the leading causes of blindness globally, making it essential to raise awareness about early detection and treatment of glaucoma.
Common Glaucoma Symptoms
The symptoms of glaucoma differ based on its type and progression. The two primary forms of the condition are open-angle glaucoma and angle-closure glaucoma, each presenting distinct signs at various stages.
Sign of Open-Angle Glaucoma (Most Common Type)
- Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
- Difficulty adjusting to dim lighting
- Blind spots in vision, especially in the later stages
- No pain or discomfort in the early stages
Signs of Angle-Closure Glaucoma (a Medical Emergency)
- Sudden, severe eye pain
- Blurred vision or sudden vision loss
- Halos around lights
- Nausea and vomiting
- Red eyes and headaches
Because symptoms of glaucoma develop slowly in most cases, regular eye checkups are essential, even if you do not notice any changes in your vision.
Who Is at Risk for Glaucoma?
Certain individuals have an increased likelihood of developing glaucoma. The following factors increase the likelihood of experiencing glaucoma symptoms:
- Age: People over 40 are at higher risk.
- Family History: If someone in your family has glaucoma, your risk increases.
- High Eye Pressure: Elevated intraocular pressure can lead to optic nerve damage.
- Diabetes & Hypertension: These conditions can increase the risk of developing glaucoma.
- Thin Corneas: People with thinner corneas are more susceptible.
- Long-Term Steroid Use: Prolonged use of steroid medications can increase eye pressure.
If you fall into any of these categories, it is important to have regular eye exams to detect glaucoma symptoms early.
Why Early Detection of Glaucoma Symptoms Matters
Glaucoma-related vision loss is irreversible. Once the optic nerve is damaged, it cannot be repaired. Early identification and treatment of glaucoma can help prevent additional loss of vision.
At Siddhi Eye Care Centre, Dr. Soumya Shetty offers advanced diagnostic tests such as:
- Tonometry: Measures eye pressure
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Scans the optic nerve for damage
- Visual Field Tests: Checks for blind spots in vision
- Gonioscopy: Examines the drainage system of the eye
Regular eye checkups can help catch symptoms of glaucoma in their early stages before they lead to serious vision problems.
Treatment of Glaucoma
Although glaucoma cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively with treatment. The aim of glaucoma treatment is to reduce intraocular pressure and safeguard the optic nerve from additional damage.
1. Medications (Eye Drops)
Glaucoma is commonly managed with prescription eye drops that help reduce intraocular pressure. Common medications include:
- Prostaglandin Analogs (e.g., Latanoprost): Helps drain fluid from the eye
- Beta-Blockers (e.g., Timolol): Reduces fluid production in the eye
- Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors: Decreases eye pressure
Using eye drops as prescribed is crucial to keeping glaucoma symptoms under control.
2. Laser Treatments
If eye drops are not enough, laser therapy can be used to improve drainage and reduce pressure. Common laser treatments for symptoms glaucoma include:
- Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): For open-angle glaucoma, helps improve fluid drainage
- Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI): For angle-closure glaucoma, creates a small hole in the iris to relieve pressure
3. Surgical Procedures
For severe cases of glaucoma symptoms, surgery may be necessary to improve fluid drainage. Surgical options include:
- Trabeculectomy: Creates a new drainage channel in the eye
- Glaucoma Drainage Implants: Small devices inserted to help drain excess fluid
Lifestyle Changes to Manage Glaucoma Symptoms
Besides medical treatment, making certain lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of glaucoma and maintain eye health:
- Exercise Regularly: Activities like walking, yoga, and swimming can improve blood flow to the optic nerve.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: Include foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A and C (leafy greens, fish, nuts, carrots, and citrus fruits).
- Limit Caffeine Intake: Too much caffeine can cause temporary spikes in eye pressure.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink enough water but avoid consuming large amounts in one sitting, as this can increase eye pressure.
- Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: These can contribute to optic nerve damage.
- Manage Underlying Conditions: Keeping diabetes and hypertension under control can help reduce glaucoma risk.
Why Choose Siddhi Eye Care Centre?
Siddhi Eye Care Centre, led by Dr. Soumya Shetty, is a trusted name in eye care. The clinic offers:
- Cutting-edge diagnostic technology for the early detection of glaucoma symptoms.
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient
- Expert medical care from experienced ophthalmologists
Dr. Soumya Shetty and her team are dedicated to providing the best eye care to help patients maintain their vision and quality of life.
Conclusion
Glaucoma is a silent but serious eye disease that can lead to blindness if left untreated. The best way to protect your vision is through regular eye checkups, early detection of glaucoma symptoms, and proper treatment of glaucoma.
If you are at risk or have noticed changes in your vision, do not wait. Book an appointment with Dr. Soumya Shetty at Siddhi Eye Care Centre today. Early intervention can make all the difference in preserving your eyesight for years to come.