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

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that slowly damage the optic nerve. Most people hear about high eye pressure, but many cases start with normal pressure too. If you ignore it, the vision loss can become permanent, so catching it early matters.

Common Signs and Who’s at Risk

Typical symptoms include blurry edges of sight, halos around lights, or sudden eye pain. Some people don’t notice anything until the damage is done. Age over 60, family history, diabetes, and thin corneas raise the risk. If you fit any of these, schedule a check‑up even if you feel fine.

How Doctors Test for Glaucoma

The basic exam measures intraocular pressure with a tonometer. They also look at the optic nerve using a slit lamp and take pictures of your retina (OCT scan). These tests spot early changes that ordinary vision checks can miss.

Treatment starts with eye‑drop medicines that lower pressure. If drops aren’t enough, doctors might suggest laser therapy or surgery to improve fluid flow in the eye. Newer medications combine ingredients to reduce side effects and simplify dosing.

Lifestyle tweaks help too. Regular exercise, a balanced diet low in salty foods, and staying hydrated can keep eye pressure steadier. If you smoke, quitting gives your eyes extra protection because smoking worsens blood flow to optic nerves.

Never skip follow‑up appointments. Glaucoma can change over months, and doctors need fresh readings to adjust treatment. Even if the drops feel fine, missing a visit may let pressure creep up unnoticed.

If you’re prescribed multiple drops, use a timer or set an alarm on your phone. Applying one drop at a time with a five‑minute gap helps each medication work properly.

Living with glaucoma isn’t a death sentence for your sight. With early detection, consistent treatment, and simple daily habits, most people keep a useful level of vision for years. Talk to an eye doctor today if any of these signs sound familiar – better safe than sorry.