Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss worldwide - yet many people don’t even know they have it until it’s too late. Often called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma can progress slowly and painlessly, damaging your optic nerve and gradually stealing your vision without obvious symptoms in the early stages.
 

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve, the pathway that connects your eye to your brain. This damage is often linked to elevated pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). While anyone can develop glaucoma, it is more common in individuals over 40, those with a family history of the disease, people with diabetes, and individuals of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent.
 

There are several types of glaucoma, including open angle glaucoma, angle closure glaucoma, and normal tension glaucoma, but all can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.
 

The Hidden Danger of Glaucoma

One of the most concerning aspects of glaucoma is that it can progress quietly for years before you notice any vision problems. Because peripheral vision is usually affected first, your brain can often compensate for these early changes, making them difficult to detect without a professional eye exam. By the time symptoms are noticeable, significant and irreversible vision damage may have already occurred.
 

Early Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

While glaucoma often starts without symptoms, there are a few early warning signs and changes to watch for:
 

•          Gradual loss of peripheral vision: You may begin to notice difficulty seeing objects off to the side.

•          Blurry or hazy vision: Vision may appear less sharp or slightly cloudy.

•          Halos around lights: Seeing rainbow-colored rings or halos, particularly at night, can indicate elevated eye pressure.

•          Eye pain or pressure: Some types of glaucoma, especially angle-closure glaucoma, can cause sudden eye pain or pressure.

•          Redness in the eye: Persistent redness can be a sign of inflammation or pressure buildup.

•          Frequent headaches: Increased intraocular pressure can occasionally trigger headaches or eye strain.
 

If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an eye exam right away.
 

Early Detection Is Key

Because glaucoma damage cannot be reversed, early detection and management are essential. Regular comprehensive eye exams allow your eye doctor to measure eye pressure, inspect your optic nerve, and perform visual field tests to identify early signs of disease. When caught early, glaucoma can often be managed effectively through medications, laser therapy, or minimally invasive surgery to preserve your vision.
 

Stay Ahead of Glaucoma at Sacramento Eye Consultants

Glaucoma may be a hidden danger, but with proactive care and regular eye exams, vision loss is largely preventable. our team is dedicated to protecting your vision with advanced diagnostic technology and personalized glaucoma care.

Schedule your next eye exam at Sacramento Eye Consultants to take control of your eye health and detect glaucoma before it threatens your sight. Contact our office in Sacramento, Folsom, or Lincoln, California, by calling (916) 915-0300 to book an appointment today.