Early Signs of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is often thought of as a singular condition, but is in fact an entire group of conditions which damage the optic nerve. Most sources of glaucoma stem from high pressure within the eyes. The optometry professionals here at the Eye Care Specialists of Florida in Kissimmee want people to be aware that there are many forms of glaucoma and many types of the disease don’t have any warning signs. It is for this reason our eye care professionals stress the importance of regular eye exams to help monitor any changes in the eyes. Because glaucoma progresses slowly and gradually, the condition may not be detected until its later stages. Therefore learning the early signs of Glaucoma is essential to the preservation of sight.

Many Variables Determine Glaucoma Symptoms

It is important to note that glaucoma symptoms can vary due to many factors, like age, demographics, racial ethnicity, family history, and the type of disease. Our optometrists conduct complete histories and physicals on each of our patients to gain as much information as possible to help determine the best course of maintenance for eye health, and to identify the early signs of eye diseases like glaucoma. It is also important to note that not all glaucoma is caused by elevated eye pressure. In the case of normal tension glaucoma, people who have a family history of the disease, Mexican Americans, people over the age of 60, and African Americans over the age of 40 years are at high risk for developing this type of glaucoma.

 Identifying the Early Signs

There are no identifiable signs in the beginning stages of open angle glaucoma. As the disease progresses, patients begin to experience patch like blind spots in their central or side vision. This phenomenon generally occurs in both eyes. As the disease continues to advance, tunnel vision occurs. In the case of acute angle glaucoma, early signs of the disease include redness of the eyes, blurry vision, the appearance of halos around lights, nausea and vomiting, headaches, and pain in the eyes. If left untreated, glaucoma will result in blindness.

Get Your Eyes Examined

The optometry professionals here at Eye Care Specialists of Florida in Kissimmee encourage anyone who falls into the category of being at risk for developing glaucoma to have their eyes examined as soon as possible. We also encourage people over the age of 40 to do the same. In addition, if it has been greater than two years since you’ve had your eyes examined give us a call at (407) 483-0328 to schedule an appointment to see us today.