Progression Of Glaucoma - Glaucoma: Eye Care

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Progression of glaucoma

Except for acute closed-angle glaucoma, this disease often has no symptoms in its early stages. Even blind spots or diminishing peripheral vision may not be noticeable until the disease is already quite advanced. Occasionally, people realize something is awry when they repeatedly need new eyeglass prescriptions or have trouble adjusting to the dark. However, these symptoms generally occur later in the disease. The good news is that vision loss from glaucoma can be prevented if the condition is discovered before the nerve is damaged. This makes regular screening for glaucoma beginning at age 40 very important.

Symptoms are much more defined in the acute form of glaucoma. Most people experience blurred vision, considerable eye pain, rainbow halos around lights, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. This is a serious condition and can cause blindness in a relatively short time; thus the onset of symptoms requires immediate treatment. It's wise to go to an emergency room, if you can't get through to your ophthalmologist. Left untreated, glaucoma can lead to limited tunnel vision and eventual blindness.

Last updated:	June 19, 2007