One of the most challenging and distressing concerns for older adults is the loss of eyesight. The loss of sight, particularly at an advanced age, is accompanied by diminished freedom and a sense of loneliness. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the early warning indications of glaucoma. By doing so, you can reduce the risk of permanent vision loss and have better overall results. While there are numerous forms of glaucoma, they all share a common characteristic; they cause harm to the optic nerve. Unfortunately, it could be hard to identify the warning symptoms of glaucoma as they are not usually apparent till it is too late. To help you with this, glaucoma Hell’s Kitchen specialist Dr. Russell Levine discusses the common signs of this eye condition in this post. Read on to learn more.
1.Halos Encircling Lights
Halos are brilliant rings around a light source, similar to headlights. Spotting halos encircling lights indicate the onset of a severe eye condition, such as cataracts or glaucoma. Some people have reported detecting halos surrounding lights as an adverse reaction after LASIK surgery, cataract surgery, or while donning eyeglasses.
2. Vision Loss In One Eye
If you experience vision loss or experience a blind spot in your range of view, you should be evaluated for glaucoma. Glaucoma induces progressive vision loss; thus, it is best to undergo an eye exam. This eye exam becomes even more crucial if you suddenly lose vision in one eye. At this stage, it is an urgent matter.
If you have glaucoma, you have a brief window of opportunity to receive therapy and prevent irreversible blindness. Transient vision loss indicates a more severe inherent concern, including a stroke, and does not necessarily suggest glaucoma.
3. Cloudy-Appearing Eyes
Within the cornea is a thin layer of cells that constantly drain the watery liquid outside the cornea, maintaining its clarity. If the pressure gets excessively high, the fluid will be forced into the cornea, clouding and saturating it, making the eyes appear hazy.
Cloudy eyes are plainly noticeable in a mirror and must be examined by a physician quickly. More often than not, hazy eyes are triggered by cataracts, which primarily affect the elderly. If you develop blurred vision, you should seek medical attention.
4. Light Sensitivity
Younger individuals with elevated ocular pressure (IOP) are more sensitive to light. There could be multiple causes for this concern. The open window of the eye could become hazy and swollen, causing discomfort. Once the cornea is not totally clear, the light will reflect unevenly off the cornea, generating glare. This glare is an early indicator of glaucoma, although it does not immediately affect an individual’s eyesight.
5. Sever and Rapid Eye Pain
Extreme discomfort in the eyes is the most noticeable symptom of an acute incident of glaucoma. Considering how severe the pain can be, this is usually a medical emergency. Eye redness, nausea, and maybe vomiting are common reactions to this attack.
Are you experiencing one or more of these glaucoma warning signs? If so, you should not delay consulting an expert ophthalmologist. At Russell Levine, MD, your physician will examine your unique concerns and employ the necessary diagnostic procedures to determine if you have glaucoma. Numerous treatment options, including oral medication, eye drops, and laser therapy, can correct the issues brought about by glaucoma. Schedule a consultation through mobile or book online to establish what procedure is right for you.
