Symptoms of glaucoma

Symptoms of glaucoma vary depending on the specific type of glaucoma that you have. You should seek prompt medical attention as soon as you notice any symptoms of glaucoma. It is also important to get regular eye examinations, since open-angle glaucoma usually does not have symptoms until damage has already occurred.

Symptoms of open-angle glaucoma

In cases of chronic glaucoma, there are usually no noticeable symptoms because the condition develops very slowly. People with this type of glaucoma often do not realise that their sight is being damaged. This is because the first part of the eye to be affected is the outer field of vision (peripheral vision). Vision is lost from the outer rim of the eye, slowly working inwards towards the centre.

Changes in vision are often linked to getting older, which is why it is so important to have your eyes checked regularly. You should have an eye test at least every two years, or more frequently if your optometrist (healthcare professional who tests sight) recommends it.

Open-angle glaucoma exhibits no symptoms until you have already lost some vision. Loss of vision typically starts at the sides of your visual field, leading to tunnel vision, and progresses toward the center of your vision.

Symptoms of angle-closure or acute glaucoma

Angle-closure glaucoma typically exhibits a sudden onset of symptoms. At times any of these symptoms can be severe:

As a result of these symptoms, some people may also feel sick or be sick.The symptoms of acute glaucoma are not constant. They can last for one or two hours before disappearing again. But each time the symptoms occur, your vision is damaged a little more. It is important to contact your GP straight away if you have any of the above symptoms, because early treatment can prevent further damage occurring.If you have symptoms outside your GP’s normal working hours, visit your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department. The healthcare professionals at A&E will relieve the pressure within your eye and treat any pain.

Symptoms of congenital glaucoma

Congenital glaucoma is present at birth, although symptoms are not generally recognized until several months of age. These symptoms include:

• Haze in the normally clear cornea (front of the eye)
• Increased sensitivity to light

• Red, sore eyes (bloodshot eyes)
• Swelling of one or both eyes

Symptoms of secondary glaucoma

Secondary glaucoma is caused by other conditions or eye injuries, such as uveitis (inflammation of the middle layer of the eye). It is possible for the symptoms of glaucoma to be confused with the symptoms of the other condition. For example, uveitis often causes painful eyes and headaches. 

However, the glaucoma may still cause misty vision and rings or halos around lights.

Symptoms that might indicate a serious condition

Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a serious condition that should be immediately evaluated in an emergency setting. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these serious symptoms including:

• Blurred vision
• Eye pain
• Halos seen around lights
• Headache
• Loss of vision or changes in vision
• Nausea with or without vomiting

Glaucoma Symptoms & Treatments : Glaucoma Symptoms