Glaucoma: What It Is and How to Keep Your Vision Safe

Glaucoma isn’t a single disease; it’s a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often because of high pressure inside the eye. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss, especially in the peripheral (side) view.

Spotting Glaucoma Early

The biggest problem with glaucoma is that many people don’t notice any symptoms until damage has already happened. Some warning signs you should watch for include:

• Blurred vision, especially at night
• Seeing halos around lights
• Painful eyes or headaches
• Tunnel‑vision as the side view narrows

If any of these sound familiar, book an eye exam right away. An eye doctor can check your intraocular pressure (IOP) and look for optic nerve damage with a simple test.

Common Treatments That Work

The goal of treatment is to lower eye pressure and stop further damage. Most people start with prescription eye drops, which either reduce fluid production or help it drain faster. If drops aren’t enough, doctors may suggest laser therapy or surgery to improve fluid flow.

Here’s a quick rundown of the main options:

• Eye‑drop meds: First‑line, easy to use, but you need to remember daily doses.
• Laser trabeculoplasty: A quick office procedure that opens drainage pathways.
• Micro‑invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS): Small incisions, quicker recovery, and fewer complications.

Choosing the right treatment depends on your type of glaucoma, how high your pressure is, and any other health issues you have. Your doctor will help you weigh benefits and side effects.

Besides medical care, a few lifestyle tweaks can support eye health. Regular exercise helps lower blood pressure, which can affect eye pressure too. Eat foods rich in antioxidants—like leafy greens, carrots, and berries—to give your eyes extra protection. And always protect your eyes from harsh sunlight with UV‑blocking sunglasses.

On this tag page you’ll find articles that dive deeper into specific glaucoma topics, such as medication reviews, coping strategies for vision changes, and the latest research updates. Use the list of posts below to explore practical tips, real‑world experiences, and expert advice—all written in plain language you can understand.

Remember, early detection is the best defense. Schedule regular eye exams, especially if you’re over 40 or have a family history of glaucoma. With the right treatment plan and some everyday habits, you can keep your vision clear for years to come.