Glaucoma is a severe eye disease that occurs due to optic nerve damage. Fluid buildup due to lack of proper drainage leads to pressure in the eye. Glaucoma affects vision and is a leading cause of blindness among individuals over 60. 

The condition can occur at any age, but it worsens over time and is more common among the elderly. Here are early warning signs of glaucoma that you should not ignore. 

 

• Halos Around Lights 

One early warning sign of glaucoma is halos or bright circles around lights. If you see halos around lights, you may develop an eye disorder such as cataracts or glaucoma. Halos may also be a side effect of LASIK surgery or a sign that you need new eyeglasses.

Seeing an eye specialist will help rule out glaucoma. It is a warning sign that you should not ignore. Look out for an increase in floaters and flashing lights. 

 

• Sudden Vision Loss

Losing vision in one eye is something you should not ignore. Some people may experience a blind spot in their field of vision. While sudden vision loss can be a sign of stroke, it can indicate a blockage in the arteries or veins.

Glaucoma usually causes gradual vision loss in one eye, but sudden vision loss is an emergency. If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, you must get treatment immediately. 

 

• Sensitivity to Light

If you suddenly notice you are more sensitive to light, you should visit an eye doctor. It can be an early warning sign of glaucoma. High eye pressure can lead to increased sensitivity to light. It may be due to the clear part of the eye becoming waterlogged and cloudy, which can be very uncomfortable.

An unclear cornea reflects light irregularly, causing glare. The vision may not be affected, but it is an early sign of glaucoma. 

 

• Sudden Eye Pain 

While many eye diseases are often painless, some conditions can lead to pain. Increased pressure in the eye can result in pain, and it could be a sign of glaucoma. Fluid buildup increases the pressure that damages the optic nerve.

Angle-closure glaucoma can produce severe pain, accompanied by eye redness, nausea, vomiting, blurry vision, and headaches. However, the more common open-angle glaucoma develops gradually and with no pain. 

 

• Cloudy-looking Eyes

A healthy cornea is clear as cells in the eye pump out watery fluid from the cornea. Increased pressure can cause the fluid to remain in the cornea, causing water logging and making the eye cloudy. Cloudy-looking eyes are easy to detect in a mirror. In most cases, this can be a sign of cataracts. If your eyes are hazy, you should visit a doctor for a checkup. 

Other signs that should not be ignored include eye injuries, sharp particles in the eye, blurry eyes, and red eyes. You should contact an eye specialist if you experience discomfort while wearing contacts. Poor contact lens care can lead to infections, scarring, and vision loss. 

Any change in your vision is a sign that you must check your eyes. Early detection of glaucoma is vital for preventing or slowing down vision loss. 

For more early warning signs of glaucoma that you should not ignore, visit Gregor Eye Care at our Overland Park, Kansas office. Call (913) 685-0212 to schedule an appointment today.