(By: Dr Digvijay Singh, Director, Noble Eye Care, Gurugram)

So-called the ‘silent thief of sight’, Glaucoma is one of the most critical eye disorders which, if neglected, can lead to severe vision impairment. One of the main causes of eye-sight weakness is an increase the intraocular pressure (IOP) which leads to damage of the optic nerve, thus impaired vision. This condition is notorious for forming on its own without noticeable manifestations in the beginning stages which makes regular eye check-ups essential. In older adults this disorder is prevalent for quite some time but, everyone and anyone can be diagnosed with glaucoma.  

1. Gradual Loss Of Peripheral Vision: 

The most common symptoms of Open Glaucoma, one of the most common types of glaucoma is a gradual dulling of side vision. This is nearsightedness and is very undetectable until a certain extent. If you often find yourself bumping into many objects then it is prudent to consult an ophthalmologist and get examined. This symptom makes it harder to extrapolate peripheral details.

2. Blurred Or Hazy Vision:

Consistent blurry sights is a common symptom of numerous health complications but if eye-sight is combined with increased eye pressure then it is an unequivocal indication of acute angle-closure glaucoma. The latter can leap up and create drastic pressure in the eye. If you encounter this scenario, make sure to seek immediate assistance in order to prevent irreversible harm.

3. Pain In The Eye And Head Along With Intense Eyesight Issues:

Open-angle glaucoma may be slow to develop and painless, but angle-closure glaucoma may lead to acute headaches, eye pain, and even nausea. This happens when fluid drainage inside the eye gets blocked suddenly, leading to high-pressure spikes. Such developments would require immediate medical attention since they can lead to permanent damage to one's eyesight.  

4. Circular Lights On The Horizon:

The optic nerve canal having damage due to glaucoma is identified by seeing light as having vibrant rainbow walls bordering them. This symptom is typical for angle-closure glaucoma patients often when the intraocular pressure is very high. The reason as to why halos are constructed is due to the increase in the pressure of the cornea which makes it hard to focus on lights especially on dim settings. If the general public tries to look at these signs, it would be prudent to pay an expert to look at their eyes.  

5. Change In Eyesight Is Common:

Constantly struggling to adjust to sudden fluctuations in light can result in your eyeglass prescription being too lenient. Such events are linked to the eyesight and directly lead to optic nerve damage. Changes in eyesight due to the age factor is something many are accustomed to, but such changes brought forth from glaucoma tend to be extreme and at times bluntly shocking. Any drastic changes in eyesight no matter how trivial should be looked at by an eye doctor.  

 Why It Matters To Find It Early  

The changing behaviors of people have led glaucoma to become one of the eye defects which require people to face permanent blindness. Looking for early signs, and actively working along with the expert can help gaze through the cloud of vision loss.

Because symptoms frequently remain masked until the later stages, periodic thorough eye examinations — particularly for people older than 40, those with a family history of glaucoma, or diabetes — are paramount.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]