Glaucoma Signs and Symptoms

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to irreversible vision loss if not detected and treated early. It is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it typically progresses slowly and without noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Before visiting Crystal Clear Optometry in McAllen, TX, for care, learn about some signs and symptoms of glaucoma below:

Common Signs of Glaucoma

Early stages of glaucoma usually have no symptoms, making regular eye exams crucial for early detection. As the condition advances, individuals may experience the following:

Gradual Peripheral Vision Loss: This often starts with a slight narrowing of the field of vision, which can progress over time if untreated.

Blind Spots: Known as scotomas, these blind spots may appear in the peripheral or central vision as the optic nerve becomes more damaged.

Blurry Vision: Especially in the later stages of glaucoma, vision may become blurry or cloudy.

Symptoms of Advanced Glaucoma

As glaucoma progresses, symptoms may become more noticeable. Some of these symptoms include:

Severe Eye Pain: Severe eye pain can often occur in angle-closure glaucoma, where the intraocular pressure rises rapidly.

Headaches: Often accompanied by eye pain, headaches can indicate increased pressure within the eye.

Nausea or Vomiting: These symptoms can happen alongside severe eye pain and headaches, indicating a medical emergency.

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Since glaucoma often develops without symptoms until significant vision loss occurs, regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and treatment. During these exams, our eye doctor can measure intraocular pressure, assess the health of the optic nerve, and identify any signs of damage that could indicate glaucoma.

Contact Crystal Clear Optometry for an Appointment Today

If you are experiencing any signs of glaucoma or have concerns about your eye health, contact Crystal Clear Optometry in McAllen, TX, at (956) 687-6567. After an evaluation, we can recommend appropriate treatment options to preserve your vision. When you need an optometrist near me, our team is ready to assist you!