The optic nerve is responsible for sending messages from the eyes to the brain, making it essential for vision. Unfortunately, a variety of factors can cause optic nerve damage, and these conditions that damage the optic nerve are known as glaucoma.
Glaucoma is typically but not always caused by high pressure in the eyes. In the US, almost 40% of glaucoma patients never have high eye pressure. So, a pressure check alone isn’t a very good test for glaucoma. Identifying the early signs of glaucoma can ensure that you receive prompt treatment and can also prevent total vision loss.
Early signs of glaucoma can vary depending on the type of condition. The main types of glaucoma and their early warning signs include:
Open-Angle Glaucoma
Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of glaucoma. The best early test is an exam of the optic nerve. The nerve changes precede serious damage often by decades. With this type, the angle created is where the iris meets the cornea, and this is completely normal. However, the main drainage pathway in the eye can gradually become clogged, and increase the pressure in the eye, resulting in damage to the optic nerve.
Since open-angle glaucoma develops very slowly, it’s often difficult to recognize early symptoms. Patients may even lose some of their vision without realizing that there’s a problem. Peripheral vision loss in both eyes is typically the first symptom of this type of glaucoma; however, patients may also experience central vision loss and blind spots.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the iris protrudes outward and narrows the angle made by the iris and cornea. This blocks fluid circulation and increases the pressure in the eye, resulting in optic nerve damage.
When acute-angle glaucoma develops gradually, it’s considered chronic, but when it comes on suddenly, it’s considered acute and becomes a medical emergency. Symptoms of acute-closure glaucoma may include eye redness, halos around lights, eye pain, severe headaches, blurred vision, nausea, and vomiting.
If you experience any symptoms of glaucoma, please immediately visit The Eye Clinic of Florida for an evaluation.