Dr. Pradeep Balam, Consultant – Glaucoma, Sankara Eye Hospital, Hyderabad Glaucoma is often at a more advanced stage by the time these symptoms appear, underscoring the “silent nature” of the disease and the importance of eye care. Most people first come in to get checked for glaucoma when they begin to notice subtle changes in their vision. Often, they report difficulty with peripheral vision—described as a narrowing field of vision or complain of seeing halos around lights, especially at night. Some people may occasionally have blurry vision and mild eye discomfort.
Dubbed as the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma often advances without clear warning signs. Unlike painful conditions, it gradually harms the optic nerve and reduces peripheral vision. By the time vision changes are detected, significant damage is often irreversible. Regular eye exams are advised to help catch it early.
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When Should You Get Tested for Glaucoma?
By the age of fourty, Ophthalmologists advise a baseline eye examination. Early symptoms of glaucoma and other age-related eye disorders frequently start to show up at this time. However, some people should start earlier. People with family history of glaucoma and of African, Asian or Hispanic descent, history of using steroids, any injury to the eye are more vulnerable.
What Exactly Is Glaucoma?
The eye comprises a liquid filled zone that is delicate and gelatinous in nature, located within the front and rear chambers of the eye that keeps the eye intact while offering sustenance and deactivating metabolic residues. This liquid is known as the “aqueous humor”. When the internal pressure of the eye rises to a point where it damages the optic nerve, it is called glaucoma. Optic nerve, being the component that transmits messages between the eye and the brain, high internal eye pressure damages the optic nerve. Compromising the optic nerve, triggers the formation of blind spots and eventually, without any treatment, leads towards a complete loss of vision.
The condition is categorized by its severity and progression. In its earliest stages, glaucoma might not cause any noticeable symptoms. By the time vision changes are apparent, significant damage may have already occurred. This is why early detection is so critical.
Can Glaucoma Develop Overnight?
While lifestyle factors do not typically cause glaucoma to develop overnight, certain triggers—like prolonged time in a dark environment, dilation of the pupils, or stress—can precipitate an acute attack in those predisposed to this form of the disease.
Certain types of acute angle-closure glaucoma may progress quickly, often accompanied by noticeable signs. These include extremely painful eyes, nausea, redness, and even blurred vision. With a rise in internal eye pressure, the associated nausea, redness, and blurriness also escalate. 
How Often Should You Be Checked?
The frequency of follow-up exams depends on your risk profile:
• Low risk: Every 2-4 years before age 55, every 1-3 years between 55 and 64, and every 1-2 years after age 65.
• High risk: Every 1-2 years, starting from the recommended age for the first screening.
What Are the Warning Signs?
Although early-stage glaucoma is often asymptomatic, there are some red flags to watch for, including:
- Blurred vision or difficulty focusing
- Redness in the eye
- Eye pain or pressure
- Nausea or vomiting associated with severe eye pain
- Halos around lights
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision (tunnel vision)
Managing glaucoma
The Glaucoma diagnosis may not always result in an instant loss of vision or a significant change in lifestyle for many patients. The majority of people with glaucoma may lead normal, active lives with the help of contemporary medicines and careful attention.
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