How to Detect the Symptoms of Late-Stage Glaucoma
Glaucoma is commonly known as the “silent thief of sight” since it might lead to subtle and irreversible vision loss before developing any apparent signs. Glaucoma, when in its early stages, won’t result in any pain or apparent signs, making it impossible to detect except through routine eye exams. Symptoms become apparent when the disease progresses and develops to its later stages. This is why it’s crucial to understand the symptoms and seek professional help before the condition reaches its advanced stages. Visiting trusted eyeglasses stores in Calgary for regular eye checks can be an essential first step in ensuring your eyes are healthy.
Let’s explore the key signs and symptoms indicating the disease has progressed.
Understanding Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve due to raised intraocular pressure (IOP). The optic nerve carries visual information from the eye to the brain, and damage to this nerve might result in blindness.
There are two primary forms of glaucoma: open-angle glaucoma (the most prevalent type) and angle-closure glaucoma. Both may cause loss of vision if left untreated, but the symptoms of late-stage glaucoma are more evident when the disease reaches a point of crisis.
Common Symptoms of Late-Stage Glaucoma
1. Loss of Peripheral Vision
One of the most characteristic symptoms of late-stage glaucoma is the progressive loss of peripheral (side) vision. Frequently, people will not even realize it at first because their central vision is unaffected. As the condition progresses, peripheral vision slowly constricts until it becomes tunnel vision. If you cannot see things on the periphery of your vision, it’s a good bet that the disease has progressed.
2. Blurred Vision
Glaucoma injures the optic nerve, resulting in blurred or cloudy vision. Blurriness can be more prominent during tasks like reading or driving. If it becomes chronic or increases over a while, it could indicate advanced destruction of the inner structures of the eye.
3. Eye Pain or Redness
Although less frequent in every instance, many with advanced glaucoma report pain behind the eyes, especially if intraocular pressure is building dramatically. The pain may be accompanied by headache or heaviness in the eyes. Redness in the eyes, which may include pain, is also an alarming feature that may indicate the advancement of glaucoma.
4. Halos Around Lights
If you start to experience halos or rainbow-coloured circles around light, especially in the evening, this may indicate elevated intraocular pressure. This symptom is more likely to manifest in people who have angle-closure glaucoma, but it may also occur in other types of the disease later on.
5. Nausea and Vomiting
In advanced glaucoma, especially angle-closure glaucoma, patients can also present with nausea, vomiting, and even loss of vision. This happens when an acute rise in intraocular pressure or a medical emergency occurs. If you notice this symptom, getting immediate medical help is essential.
What to Do if You Notice These Signs
If you start experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to act quickly. Although the late-stage glaucoma symptoms are alarming, intervention early enough can avoid further vision loss. The initial step is to book an appointment with a glaucoma specialist in Calgary. An eye expert can conduct a complete eye exam, such as a test to determine intraocular pressure, visual field tests, and an optic nerve check.
Routine eye examinations are essential for those beyond age 40, for those with a family history of glaucoma, and for those with other risk factors such as high blood pressure or diabetes. If you have any doubts, consult a professional eye care practitioner to have your eyes checked.
Prevention and Management
Although glaucoma cannot be reversed, its development can be treated well with medication, laser therapy, or surgery, depending on the stage and type of disease. If detected early, interventions can prevent further vision loss and enhance quality of life.
In the end, routine checkups with an optometrist or ophthalmologist are the best means of catching glaucoma early and keeping it from developing its advanced forms. While eyeglasses shops can remind you to stay on top of your eye health and regularly visit eye care professionals. Catching glaucoma before it’s too late is the key to preserving your vision for years.
If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, don’t delay in seeking professional help from a glaucoma specialist. Early detection and treatment are your best defence against irreversible vision loss.
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