Glaucoma: Know the Symptoms, Causes and Prevention Measures

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide, yet it often progresses silently without obvious symptoms until significant vision loss has already occurred. This makes public awareness, early detection, and timely treatment extremely important. Glaucoma is an irreversible condition - vision once lost cannot be restored. This is why glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight.” Early diagnosis is paramount to preserving remaining vision.

At Arunodaya Deseret Eye Hospital, we believe that informed patients are empowered patients. This blog aims to spread awareness about glaucoma, its symptoms, causes, and ways to prevent vision loss.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage is most commonly associated with increased intraocular pressure (IOP), although glaucoma can also occur with normal eye pressure.

If left untreated, glaucoma can gradually narrow your field of vision and eventually lead to permanent blindness. Since the damage caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed, early detection and continuous monitoring are crucial to slow disease progression.

Common Symptoms of Glaucoma

One of the biggest challenges with glaucoma is that early-stage glaucoma often has no symptoms. Vision loss usually begins in the peripheral (side) vision and progresses slowly.

Symptoms may include:

• Gradual loss of peripheral vision

• Difficulty seeing in low light

• Blurred vision or patchy blind spots

• Eye pain or pressure (in some types)

• Redness of the eye

• Halos around lights

• Sudden vision loss with severe headache (in acute cases)
  

Because symptoms may appear late, regular eye check-ups are crucial, especially for individuals above 40 years of age and for those with a family history of glaucoma.

Causes and Risk Factors of Glaucoma

Glaucoma occurs when fluid drainage inside the eye is impaired, leading to increased eye pressure and optic nerve damage. Several factors can increase your risk of developing glaucoma:

• Increased intraocular pressure

• Family history of glaucoma

• Age above 40 years

• Diabetes and high blood pressure

• Long-term use of steroid medications

• Eye injuries or trauma

• Thin cornea or structural eye abnormalities
  

Family history is a key risk factor. Individuals whose parents or grandparents have glaucoma are at a higher risk and should undergo regular eye screenings, even if they have no symptoms. Early screening in such cases can help detect glaucoma before irreversible vision loss occurs.

Understanding these risk factors helps in identifying people who need closer monitoring and early intervention.

Types of Glaucoma

Some of the commonly diagnosed types include:

• Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma - The most common type, slow and painless

• Angle-Closure Glaucoma - Sudden onset, medical emergency

• Normal-Tension Glaucoma - Optic nerve damage despite normal eye pressure

• Secondary Glaucoma - Caused by other eye conditions or medications

• Congenital Glaucoma - Present at birth, seen in infants
  

Each type requires a tailored treatment approach based on severity and progression.

Prevention and Early Detection of Glaucoma

While glaucoma cannot be completely prevented, early detection can prevent vision loss. Preventive measures include:

• Regular comprehensive eye examinations

• Eye pressure measurement and optic nerve evaluation

• Visual field testing for early changes

• Informing your eye doctor about family history

• Managing systemic conditions like diabetes and hypertension

• Avoiding self-medication, especially steroid eye drops
  

People at higher risk should undergo eye screening at least once every year.

Glaucoma Treatment in Sector 55 Gurgaon

If detected early, glaucoma can be effectively managed and vision can be preserved. While glaucoma-related vision loss cannot be reversed, timely treatment can slow or halt further damage. Glaucoma treatment in Sector 55 Gurgaon focuses on controlling eye pressure and preventing further damage to the optic nerve.

At Arunodaya Deseret Eye Hospital, patients receive comprehensive glaucoma evaluation and evidence-based care tailored to the stage and type of glaucoma.

Treatment options may include:

• Medicated eye drops

• Oral medications

• Laser procedures

• Surgical intervention in advanced cases
  

Consulting a qualified glaucoma specialist in Sector 55 Gurgaon at a dedicated eye care center like Arunodaya Deseret Eye Hospital ensures timely diagnosis, personalised treatment planning, and long-term monitoring to protect vision.

Conclusion

Glaucoma is a silent and irreversible condition, but vision loss can be prevented with early detection and timely treatment. Regular eye check-ups, especially for individuals with a family history of glaucoma, are essential for protecting eyesight. At Arunodaya Deseret Eye Hospital, Sector 55 Gurgaon, we focus on early diagnosis and comprehensive glaucoma care to help preserve vision and improve long-term eye health.

Disclaimer:

This blog is intended for educational and awareness purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified eye specialist for diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma.