Warning Symptoms of the ‘Silent Thief’ Condition Half of Which Don’t Realize They Have It

By 2022, an estimated 80 million people worldwide were living with glaucoma and, alarmingly, half of them were unaware of their condition. Glaucoma is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight,” according to ophthalmologists, due to its gradual onset and asymptomatic nature in the early stages.

They said this highlights the importance of proactive eye care and regular screenings for rapid detection and effective management. Eye Buy Direct experts spoke about maintaining optimal eye health and managing conditions such as glaucoma.

Five signs of glaucoma

Progressive loss of peripheral vision

Glaucoma often manifests as a progressive loss of peripheral vision, which may initially go unnoticed by the individual. Over time, this loss of peripheral vision becomes more pronounced, leading to tunnel vision in severe cases. You may have difficulty seeing objects or movements occurring to the side or periphery of your visual field, impacting activities such as driving or navigating crowded spaces.

Blurred vision

Blurred vision is a common symptom of glaucoma, affecting one or both eyes. This blurring may occur intermittently or persistently and may worsen over time. You may have difficulty seeing objects clearly at different distances, leading to difficulty with tasks such as reading or watching TV.

Halos around the lights

Seeing halos or rainbow-colored rings around lights, especially at night, can be a sign of glaucoma. These halos can appear due to increased pressure inside the eye, causing light to spread differently as it enters the eye. If you notice halos around street lights, car headlights, or other bright light sources, especially in low light conditions, you may need to seek professional help.

Eye pain or discomfort

Some people with glaucoma may experience eye pain, discomfort, or a feeling of pressure in the eye. This discomfort can range from mild to severe and may occur intermittently or persistently. Activities such as reading, watching television, or using electronic devices can exacerbate discomfort, prompting individuals to seek relief through rest or over-the-counter pain relievers.

Headaches or migraines

Glaucoma-related headaches or migraines are usually characterized by pain or pressure around the eyes, forehead, or temples. The intensity of these headaches can vary from mild to severe.

People with glaucoma may also experience associated symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light. If headaches are recurring or severe, especially if they coincide with other symptoms such as blurred vision or eye pain, it is essential to see an eye care professional promptly.

When to see an ophthalmologist

A spokesperson for Eye Buy Direct said: “It is crucial to book an appointment with an eye doctor quickly if you experience any of these symptoms associated with glaucoma. Additionally, people ages 40 and older, those with a family history of glaucoma, or those with certain health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure should prioritize regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist. to monitor their eye health.

“Early detection and treatment are key to managing glaucoma and preventing vision loss. Ophthalmologists are trained to perform comprehensive eye exams, which may include measuring intraocular pressure, assessing optic nerve health, and evaluating visual fields.

“If glaucoma is suspected, other diagnostic tests such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or visual field testing may be recommended. By seeking prompt evaluation by an ophthalmologist, individuals can receive appropriate care and necessary interventions to preserve their vision and maintain their overall eye health. Ensuring regular eye checks and responding quickly to any concerns can make all the difference in preserving vision and overall eye health.