What Does Glaucoma Do to Your Eyes? Understanding Symptoms, Types, And Management

Glaucoma is an eye disease that may lead to irreversible loss of vision if not diagnosed and managed in its early stages. But what does glaucoma do to your eyes? This article will go over how glaucoma affects your eyes, what symptoms to watch for, different types of glaucoma, and how to manage this condition.

Our objective is to help you understand glaucoma and empower you to take charge of your eye health by detecting it early and providing proper medical care. With the right approach, you may prevent significant vision loss and maintain the quality of your eyesight for years to come.

What Does Glaucoma Do To Your Eyes?

Glaucoma is a type of eye disease that impairs the optic nerve that links the eye to the brain. The damage usually occurs due to increased pressure in the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). If not addressed, this elevated eye pressure may damage the optic nerve, resulting in gradual loss of vision.

However, glaucoma can also happen in people with normal eye pressure, known as normal-tension glaucoma. In both cases, the damage to the optic nerve results in blind spots and a narrowing of peripheral vision. Over time, glaucoma can cause irreversible vision loss, starting with peripheral vision and potentially developing into complete blindness if left unattended.

Types Of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is categorised into several types, each with distinct effects on the eye. The most notable ones are:

Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma

This is the most prevalent type of glaucoma, which develops when the drainage ducts in the eye get clogged over time. This leads to a steady building of pressure in the eye, which can weaken the optic nerve.

Primary open-angle glaucoma develops gradually and usually doesn’t cause salient symptoms in the early stages, which is why it’s often called the “silent thief of sight.”

Angle-Closure Glaucoma

Also known as narrow-angle glaucoma and closed-angle glaucoma, this type happens when the angle between the iris and the cornea is too narrow, preventing proper fluid drainage (aqueous humour) from the eye.

This may cause a rapid increase in eye pressure, leading to a medical emergency known as acute angle-closure glaucoma. Symptoms of this type include severe eye pain, blurred vision, nausea, and vomiting. Chronic angle-closure glaucoma develops more slowly but can still result in optic nerve damage over time.

Normal-Tension Glaucoma

In normal-tension glaucoma, optic nerve damage happens despite normal intraocular pressure. While the exact cause is unknown, poor blood flow to the optic nerve may have a role.

People with a family history of glaucoma or certain risk factors, such as low blood pressure, are at higher risk of developing this eye condition.

Congenital Glaucoma

This form of glaucoma affects infants and children and is caused by abnormal development of the eye’s drainage system.

Early diagnosis is critical to prevent permanent vision loss. Congenital glaucoma can present with symptoms like light sensitivity, cloudy eyes, and excessive tearing.

Secondary Glaucoma

Other conditions, such as eye injury, inflammation, or the use of certain medications like corticosteroids, cause this type of glaucoma. Addressing the underlying cause can help manage secondary glaucoma and prevent further damage to the optic nerve.

Symptoms Of Glaucoma

Recognising the symptoms of glaucoma early is crucial for preventing long-term damage. Since glaucoma often progresses silently, many forms of the disease may not show any symptoms until they have reached an advanced stage.

However, depending on the type and severity of glaucoma, there are specific signs to look out for. Awareness of these symptoms can prompt early intervention, helping preserve your vision.

Gradual Loss Of Peripheral Vision

One of the hallmark symptoms of early-stage glaucoma is a gradual loss of peripheral vision, often referred to as tunnel vision. The damage starts at the outer edges of the visual field and slowly narrows inward.

This loss is usually so gradual that people may not notice it until significant damage has occurred. Glaucoma is often referred to as a thief of sight. If left untackled, the narrowing can lead to significant visual impairment.

Blurred Vision

Another common symptom of glaucoma is blurred vision. You may notice that objects or lights appear fuzzy, particularly in dim lighting or at night.

This blurriness may come and go initially, but it can gradually become more persistent as the disease progresses. Blurred vision often accompanies other signs of optic nerve damage, making it a key symptom to monitor.

Severe Eye Pain

In cases of acute angle-closure glaucoma, one of the most dangerous forms of the condition, severe eye pain can develop suddenly. This intense pain is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and a sudden spike in intraocular pressure.

Halos Around Lights

Many individuals with glaucoma, especially those with angle-closure glaucoma, report seeing halos or rings around lights. This occurs because the increased pressure in the eye affects how light is refracted as it enters the eye.

The halos may appear in various lighting conditions but are often more noticeable at night or when looking at bright lights, such as car headlights.

Red Eyes

Another visual sign associated with glaucoma is redness in the eyes. Red eyes may occur due to inflammation or increased intraocular pressure.

While eye redness can be caused by several conditions, including allergies or eye strain, an eye doctor should evaluate persistent or unexplained redness, especially if it occurs alongside other glaucoma symptoms.

Vision Loss

One of the most concerning symptoms of glaucoma is the gradual loss of vision, which typically starts with peripheral vision but can eventually affect central vision. In more advanced stages, people may experience blind spots in their field of vision.

If left unattended, this vision loss can become permanent. Early detection and proper management are crucial for slowing the progression of vision loss.

Other Possible Symptoms

Although less common, some individuals with glaucoma may experience other symptoms, such as:

• Headaches: Headaches, particularly around the eyes, can be an early warning sign of increased intraocular pressure.
• Eye Discomfort: In some cases, discomfort or pressure behind the eyes may also be present.

Risk Factors For Glaucoma

Several factors may increase your risk of developing glaucoma, including:

• Family history: If glaucoma runs in your family, you’re at a higher risk.
• Age: People over the age of 60 are more likely to develop glaucoma.
• Ethnicity: Hispanic and African populations have a higher risk of glaucoma.
• Eye conditions: People with ocular hypertension (high eye pressure), previous eye injuries, or chronic eye inflammation are at an increased risk.
• Medical conditions: High blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease can increase your risk.
• Use Of corticosteroids: Long-term use of corticosteroid medications may lead to elevated eye pressure and glaucoma.

Managing Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a chronic condition, but with proper management, vision loss can be slowed or prevented. Medical options include:

Eye Drops

Prescribed eye drops are often the first line of intervention to lower intraocular pressure. They work by lowering the amount of fluid produced in the eye or by improving fluid drainage. Your eye professional will suggest the best option for your needs.

Laser Treatment

Laser treatment can help open up the drainage channels in the eye, improving fluid flow and reducing pressure. There are different types of laser surgery for glaucoma, such as laser trabeculoplasty, which is commonly used to manage open-angle glaucoma. Another option is laser iridotomy, which creates a small hole in the iris, helping fluid drain in cases of angle-closure glaucoma.

Eye Surgery

When eye drops and laser procedures aren’t working, surgery may be necessary to reduce intraocular pressure. Surgical options include:

• Trabeculectomy: A procedure that creates a new drainage channel in the eye to relieve pressure.
• Drainage implants: Tiny devices are implanted in the eye to help fluid drain and minimise pressure.
• Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS): Newer procedures designed to lower eye pressure with fewer risks and faster recovery times than traditional surgery.

Lifestyle Changes

While medications and surgery are key to managing glaucoma, lifestyle changes can also support your eye health. Regular exercise, keeping a healthy weight, and managing high blood pressure are important for overall health and can help reduce eye pressure. A diet full of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids may also support eye health.

Early Detection And Prevention

Early detection is crucial in preventing significant vision loss from glaucoma. Regular comprehensive dilated eye exams are the best way to detect glaucoma in its early stages. During the eye exam, your eye doctor will check your intraocular pressure, examine the optic nerve, and test your side vision.

If you’re at higher risk for glaucoma due to family history, age, or other factors, your doctor may recommend more frequent eye exams. By catching glaucoma early, you can begin care before it leads to irreversible vision loss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you treat glaucoma?

While there is no cure for glaucoma, early intervention can help prevent further vision loss. Eye drops, laser procedures, and surgery are common ways to manage glaucoma.

Does glaucoma always lead to blindness?

Not everyone with glaucoma will go blind. Individuals may manage their condition and prevent significant vision loss with early detection and proper medical attention. However, if left unaddressed, glaucoma can result in irreversible blindness. Following your eye surgeon’s plan and attending regular follow-up visits is important to minimise the risk of permanent vision impairment.

Can I still exercise if I have glaucoma?

Yes, most people with glaucoma can still engage in regular physical activity. Moderate aerobic exercise like walking or swimming can help lower eye pressure. However, you should avoid heavy lifting or straining activities, as they may temporarily increase pressure in your eyes. Always consult your eye doctor before starting a new exercise regimen if you have glaucoma.

What should I do if I have acute glaucoma symptoms?

If you notice symptoms of acute angle-closure glaucoma, such as severe eye pain, blurred vision, or nausea, seek immediate intervention in an emergency room. This medical emergency requires prompt care to prevent permanent vision loss.

Final Insights: Protect Your Eyes, Preserve Your Future Vision

Glaucoma is a grave eye condition that can cause irreversible vision loss if left unnoticed. However, with early detection and proper management, you can preserve your vision and maintain a good quality of life. Regular eye exams, especially for higher-risk patients, are essential for catching glaucoma in its early stages. If you’re concerned about your eye health or have a family history of glaucoma, talk to an experienced eye doctor about the best way possible to monitor and manage your vision.

By understanding what glaucoma does to your eyes, recognising the symptoms, and exploring different management options, you’re taking the first step towards protecting your eyesight and ensuring a brighter future.

Your eye health is too important to leave to chance. If you’ve noticed any changes in your vision or have concerns about glaucoma, contact our experienced team in Melbourne. Early detection can make all the difference in preserving your sight and ensuring a brighter future.

Contact Mornington Peninsula Eye Clinic at (03) 9070 3580 to learn how we can help you manage and protect your vision.

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Sources:

Biggerstaff K S 2024. Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG). Medscape. Available at: https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1206147-overview [Accessed September 18, 2024]

Glaucoma Research Foundation 2023. African Descent and Glaucoma: Unraveling the Genetics Putting a Community at Higher Risk. Glaucoma Research Foundation. Available at: https://glaucoma.org/articles/african-descent-and-glaucoma-unraveling-the-genetics-putting-a-community-at-higher-risk [Accessed September 18, 2024]

National Eye Institute 2021. Laser Treatment for Glaucoma. National Eye Institute. Available at: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/glaucoma/treatment [Accessed September 18, 2024]

Smith H 2024. What to Know About Early Signs of Glaucoma. Medical News Today. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/early-signs-of-glaucoma [Accessed September 18, 2024]

Winderl A Marturana 2023. A Guide to Glaucoma Surgery. Health. Available at: https://www.health.com/condition/glaucoma/glaucoma-surgery [Accessed September 18, 2024]