For many people glaucoma is symptomless until it becomes advanced. However, there are a number of different symptoms to look out for with each type of glaucoma. In this article I will be discussing some of the most common glaucoma symptoms.
Symptoms Of Open Angle Glaucoma
Open angle glaucoma is responsible for over 90% of all glaucoma cases. Unfortunately, it is also one of the hardest to detect and has very few symptoms. In the early stages it only affects your peripheral vision. This loss of peripheral vision often goes unnoticed until the glaucoma has become more advanced and started to affect your inner vision.
Whilst it is very difficult to detect, try to focus on your peripheral vision once a week. If you notice any changes week on week go see your doctor or an eye specialist and explain your concerns.
Symptoms Of Angle Closure Glaucoma
Angle closure glaucoma develops much more rapidly and as a result has a lot more noticeable and severe symptoms which include:
Clouded vision.
Loss of vision.
Impaired vision when looking at light.
Pain in the eyes.
Red eyes.
Tender eyes.
If you notice any of these symptoms you should seek medical attention right away. As mentioned above, acute angle glaucoma develops very quickly and the earlier you get treated the less damage it can cause.
Symptoms Of Congenital Glaucoma
Congenital glaucoma is something that you should be looking out for if you have babies or children less than five years old. The symptoms you need to look for include:
Cloudy eyes.
Large eyes (which could be a sign of increased fluid pressure causing them to expand).
Photophobia (sensitivity to light).
Rapid eye movements.
Squinting.
Watery eyes.
If you see any of the signs above in your child then get to a doctor or an eye specialist as soon as possible.
Symptoms Of Normal Tension Glaucoma
Normal tension glaucoma’s symptoms are identical to those of open angle glaucoma. It is equally difficult to detect but if you do notice any changes in your peripheral vision go for a check-up with your doctor or eye specialist.
Summary
The bad news with glaucoma is most cases it has little to no symptoms. To give yourself the best chance of identifying glaucoma you need to be going for regular eye exams. Additionally, if you experience any vision problems or any of the other symptoms discussed in this article, no matter how slight, go see your doctor or eye specialist as soon as possible. It’s better to be safe than sorry.