There are different types of Glaucoma and each condition leads to optic nerve damage. The disease adds pressure to the optic nerve and causes fluid to build up in the eyes, leading to blind spots and total blindness if not medicated. Individuals over the age of 60 are most likely to develop glaucoma, but younger individuals are not exempt from developing the disease.

The Early Symptoms of Glaucoma

The early symptoms of glaucoma can vary from person to person, depending on the type of glaucoma they have. Usually, early signs can be subtle and missed. This is why it’s important to keep up with regular eye visits to diagnose the disease early on in its progression. The team members at The Eye Center in Columbia, SC, are dedicated to eye health and wellness. By Scheduling an appointment, they will easily confirm or rule out the risk of glaucoma.

Some common symptoms of Glaucoma include:

• Eye pain
• Headache
• Blurred vision, double vision, and blind spots
• Nausea
•  Red eyes

Any of these symptoms merit a visit with your eye care doctor, as glaucoma can cause sudden vision loss if not monitored.

Those at Risk for Developing Glaucoma

Those over the age of 40, extremely nearsighted or farsighted, have a history of glaucoma in their family, or have had previous eye surgeries are at risk of developing glaucoma. These risks are even higher if other medical conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure, are present.

There is no treatment for vision loss due to glaucoma, but the progression of glaucoma can be slowed down, and protection for remaining vision can be maintained through treatment. Residents in the Columbia, SC area should visit The Eye Center for regular eye exams to detect glaucoma while there’s still time to prevent the loss of vision.