Experiences with
GlaucomaSymptoms of glaucoma
Glaucoma does not usually cause any symptoms to begin with.
It tends to develop slowly over many years and affects the edges of your vision (peripheral vision) first.
For this reason, many people do not realise they have glaucoma, and it's often only picked up during a routine eye test.
If you do notice any symptoms, they might include blurred vision, or seeing rainbow-coloured circles around bright lights.
Both eyes are usually affected, although it may be worse in 1 eye.
Very occasionally, glaucoma can develop suddenly and cause:
- intense eye pain
- nausea and vomiting
- a red eye
- a headache
- tenderness around the eyes
- seeing rings around lights
- blurred vision
Causes of glaucoma
Glaucoma can occur for a number of reasons.
Most cases are caused by a build-up of pressure in the eye when fluid is unable to drain properly.
This increase in pressure then damages the nerve that connects the eye to the brain (optic nerve).
It's often unclear why this happens, although certain things can increase the risk, including:
- your age – glaucoma becomes more common as you get older
- your ethnicity – people of African, Caribbean or Asian origin are at a higher risk
- your family history – you're more likely to develop glaucoma if you have a parent or sibling with the condition
- other medical conditions – such as short-sightedness, long-sightedness and diabetes
It's not clear whether you can do anything to prevent glaucoma, but having regular eye tests should pick it up as early as possible.
Treatments for glaucoma
It's not possible to reverse any loss of vision that occurred before glaucoma was diagnosed, but treatment can help stop your vision getting worse.
The treatment recommended for you will depend on the type of glaucoma you have, but the options are:
- eyedrops – to reduce the pressure in your eyes
- laser treatment – to open up the blocked drainage tubes or reduce the production of fluid in your eyes
- surgery – to improve the drainage of fluid
You'll also probably need regular appointments to monitor your condition and check the treatment is working.
SymptomsMedical treatmentsCausesSymptoms of glaucoma can include blurred vision or seeing rainbow-coloured circles around bright lights. Both eyes are usually affected.
Treatment for glaucoma will depend on your symptoms. It can include eyedrops, laser treatment and surgery.
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