​​Glaucoma Symptoms: What to Watch for Before It’s Too Late

As we recognize Save Your Vision Month this March, it’s a timely reminder for people to take proactive steps in protecting their eyesight. Vision changes are a natural, but some conditions, like glaucoma, can develop without warning—leading to irreversible damage if left untreated.  Regular yearly eye health exams should be a priority.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that damages the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from your eyes to your brain. This damage is often caused by increased pressure in the optic nerve (intraocular pressure or IOP), but glaucoma can also occur even when eye pressure is within normal ranges.

What makes glaucoma so dangerous is that it develops gradually and often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. By the time vision changes become apparent, permanent damage may have already occurred.

Who Is at Risk for Glaucoma?

While glaucoma can affect anyone, certain factors increase the risk.

•          Family History of Glaucoma – If a parent or sibling has glaucoma, your chances of developing it are much higher.

•          African American, Hispanic, or Asian Descent – Certain ethnic backgrounds have a higher prevalence of glaucoma, particularly African Americans, who are at increased risk of developing it earlier and more severely.

•          Diabetes or High Blood Pressure – These health conditions can contribute to optic nerve damage and increase the risk of glaucoma.

•          Previous Eye Injuries or Surgery – Trauma to the eye, including past surgeries, can lead to higher eye pressure and nerve damage.

•          Chronic Corticosteroid Use – Long-term use of steroids, particularly in eye drop form, can increase glaucoma risk.

The Importance of Regular Glaucoma Screenings

Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight" because it can develop without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. By the time vision loss becomes apparent, the damage is usually irreversible. That’s why yearly eye health exams are critical—they allow your eye doctor to detect warning signs before they progress.

At Eldorado Vision & Optical, we use advanced glaucoma testing methods to check for early signs of the disease, including:

•          Tonometry (measuring eye pressure)

•          Ophthalmoscopy (examining the optic nerve)

•          Visual field testing (checking for blind spots)

If caught early, glaucoma can often be managed with prescription eye drops, laser treatments, or surgery to slow its progression and protect your vision.

Early Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

While glaucoma can be sneaky, there are some warning signs you should never ignore:

•          Gradual loss of peripheral vision – The first thing to go is usually your side vision, which can make driving and navigating crowded spaces more difficult.

•          Tunnel vision – As the disease progresses, vision narrows, making it harder to see what’s around you.

•          Blurry vision or halos around lights – Some people notice these symptoms, especially in the later stages.

•          Severe eye pain, headaches, or nausea – These may be signs of acute angle-closure glaucoma, a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, schedule an eye exam as soon as possible.

Schedule Your Eye Exam Today

Taking the first step is up to you. Glaucoma may not be preventable, but regular eye health exams can save your sight. This Save Your Vision Month, prioritize your eye health and take action before it’s too late.

Schedule your comprehensive eye health exam with Eldorado Vision & Optical and ensure your eyesight stays clear and healthy. Contact our office in McKinney, Texas, by calling (972) 564-8400 to book an appointment today.