Glaucoma is an eye condition, affecting millions of Americans. This disease causes gradual damage to the optic nerve because of fluid accumulation within the eye. With time, glaucoma can result in serious vision loss or even complete blindness. In most cases, new smyrna beach glaucoma is asymptomatic until an eye doctor identifies it during a routine eye exam. As such, regular eye checks are necessary if you have a risk factor for glaucoma, be it family history, age, or illnesses associated with it. Meanwhile, ophthalmologists advise patients to always watch out for the following warning signs of glaucoma.
1. Halos Around Lights
Halos refer to bright circles that surround light sources, more so like headlights. Observing halos around lights implies you are developing a serious eye condition, such as cataracts or glaucoma. Some patients also report observing halos around lights as a side effect of LASIK surgery, cataract surgery, or because of prolonged wearing of eyeglasses.
2. Vision Loss In One Eye
If you observe vision loss or develop a blind spot in your field of view, you should consider undergoing a glaucoma diagnosis. You should note that glaucoma does cause gradual vision loss, so the sooner you seek treatment, the better. However, it is already an emergency if you begin experiencing a monocular vision.
If you have glaucoma, then you have a very short period to seek treatment to prevent permanent blindness. Nonetheless, temporary vision loss is a sign of more severe underlying concerns like stroke and does not always signify glaucoma.
3. Cloudy-Looking Eyes
The cornea contains a sheet of cells that pump water fluid outside the cornea, keeping it clear. Unfortunately, if the pressure rises too high, this fluid is forced into the cornea, making it water-logged and cloudy. This issue leads to what is commonly known as cloudy-looking eyes.
Cloudy-looking eyes are easily detectable in the mirror and must be immediately assessed by a physician. In most cases, cloudy eyes result from cataracts that frequently affect older persons. Nevertheless, if you experience hazy eyes, it is important to have an eye checkup.
4. Light Sensitivity
Younger individuals with increased eye pressure (IOP) have heightened light sensitivity. The clear window of your eye might be saturated and cloudy, which is uncomfortable. Once the cornea is not entirely clear, it will make light bounce off it irregularly, causing glare. Although this condition will not harm one’s vision, for now, it may be a warning sign of glaucoma.
5. Serious and Sudden Eye Discomfort
The most obvious indication of an acute glaucoma attack is serious eye discomfort. This issue often demands emergency care as the pain is not tolerable. In most cases, this discomfort will cause eye redness, headaches, nausea, and/or vomiting.
Developing glaucoma could be a scary experience for anybody, particularly when it is identified in the advanced stages. Luckily, individuals that get routine eye exams can reduce their likelihood of spotting it too late. People with one or more glaucoma risk factors should consider scheduling frequent eye checkups. Your doctor will review all your concerns, including health history, current eye health, and any conditions that can put you at risk. Besides, if you already have glaucoma, your eye doctor will suggest the most suitable therapy, including eye drops, oral medication, or even surgery.
