What are the symptoms of glaucoma?
Open-angle glaucoma usually does not significantly impair vision or cause other noticeable symptoms in the early stages. As it gets worse, it can cause the loss of peripheral (side) vision.
The symptoms of angle-closure glaucoma usually occur suddenly and can include severe eye pain, visible halos around lights, nausea, vomiting and blurry vision. If you experience any of the symptoms of angle-closure glaucoma, seek immediate medical attention.
How is glaucoma diagnosed?
Glaucoma is diagnosed through a comprehensive dilated eye exam and a review of your medical history. Our doctors measure your intraocular pressure and perform a visual field test to check for any areas of vision loss. Our doctors will also examine your optic nerve for any signs of damage.
What are the risk factors for glaucoma?
Glaucoma risk factors include the following:
- Being over the age of 60
- Being black, Asian or Hispanic
- Having a family history of glaucoma
- Having a pre-existing medical condition such as diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure
- Having a history of a traumatic eye injury
Can I stop glaucoma from progressing?
Appropriate medical or surgical intervention can prevent or slow the progression of glaucoma.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, our doctors may recommend lowering your intraocular pressure through the use of special medications or eye drops, laser treatment, traditional surgery or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). Sometimes two or more of these treatment options are combined.
Regular eye exams are crucial to monitor the progression of the disease.
Do glaucoma eye drops cause side effects?
Like any medication, some glaucoma eye drops are associated with mild side effects. These include stinging or red eyes, blurry vision, headaches and dry mouth. Usually these side effects are only temporary. If you experience persistent side effects, please let our doctors know.
Can I have glaucoma if my eye pressure levels are normal?
Yes, it is possible to have glaucoma with eye pressure levels that are average or even below average. These cases are known as “normal tension glaucoma.”
It is also possible to have higher than average eye pressure levels and not get glaucoma. If that is the case, you should be regularly monitored by our eye doctors to watch for any signs of damage to your optic nerve.
Is there a cure for glaucoma?
There is currently no cure for glaucoma, but the condition can be managed with the help of the right medical team. The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the better. Vision that has already been lost to glaucoma unfortunately cannot be restored.