Glaucoma is said to take away your vision slowly because of its damage to the optic nerve, which is important for seeing clearly. But does glaucoma cause blindness?

In this article, you’ll learn how glaucoma affects your eyes, the different types of glaucoma, and what treatments are available. You’ll also discover steps you can take to protect your eyesight.

Does Glaucoma Cause Blindness?

Glaucoma harms the optic nerve, which helps your eyes send pictures to your brain. This damage often happens when eye pressure gets too high. The eye makes a clear fluid called aqueous humour, which usually drains out naturally.

But if this fluid does not drain properly, pressure builds up and eventually impairs the optic nerve. Over time, this might lead to permanent vision loss.

The Role Of Eye Pressure

Your eyes need normal pressure to keep their shape and work properly. But if the pressure inside the eye, called intraocular pressure (IOP), gets too high, it can press on the optic nerve and cause damage.

Some people can even develop glaucoma without high eye pressure. That’s why regular eye check-ups are so important!

Types Of Glaucoma And Their Impact On Vision

Glaucoma comes in different types, and each one affects your vision in its own way. Some types develop slowly and painlessly, while others appear suddenly and need quick treatment. Understanding the differences will help you know the amount of risk and take steps to protect your eyesight.

Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG)

This is a common type of glaucoma that occurs when the eye’s drainage angle becomes less efficient, causing pressure to build up.

• It develops slowly and may not show any early signs.
• Over time, it can cause peripheral vision loss (side vision).
• Without treatment, blind spots may develop, leading to permanent vision loss.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma (ACG)

This type happens when the drainage angle suddenly closes, causing a quick rise in eye pressure. It can happen fast and needs emergency care.

• Acute angle-closure glaucoma can cause bad eye pain, blurred vision, and nausea.
• Chronic angle-closure glaucoma develops slowly but still damages the optic nerve over time.
• If not managed, it can lead to vision loss.

Normal-Tension Glaucoma (NTG)

This type of glaucoma can damage the optic nerve, even when eye pressure is normal. The exact cause isn’t clear, but it might be because of poor blood flow to the optic nerve.

• Vision loss happens slowly, making it hard to notice at first.
• Regular eye exams are the way to catch it early.

Congenital Glaucoma

This less common type of glaucoma is present at birth. It happens when a baby’s eye fluid doesn’t drain properly.

• Babies may have cloudy eyes, sensitivity to light, and excessive tearing.
• If unmanaged, it can lead to blind spots, blurred vision, or permanent vision loss.
• Early treatment can help protect the child’s eyesight.

Recognising The Symptoms Of Glaucoma

Glaucoma can be hard to notice at first because it often develops slowly and without pain. Many people don’t realise they have it until their vision starts changing. That’s why regular eye check-ups are so important!

As glaucoma gets worse, you may start to notice changes in your vision. Some signs to look out for include:

Changes In Peripheral Vision

One of the early signs of glaucoma is losing side vision. This can happen so slowly that you may not realise it at first.

• At first, you may not notice small gaps in your side vision.
• Over time, your vision may feel narrower, like you’re looking through a tunnel.
• This can make it hard to see objects to the side while walking or driving.

Blurred Vision

Glaucoma can also make your vision blurry or foggy, making it harder to see clearly.

• You might find it hard to focus on objects, especially up close.
• Things may look foggy or unclear, even when wearing glasses.

Blind Spots

As the optic nerve gets damaged, you may notice dark spots in your vision.

• Small dark or missing areas in your vision may appear.
• These blind spots can grow, making it harder to see clearly.

Severe Eye Pain (Especially With AACG)

Some types of glaucoma, like acute angle-closure glaucoma, can cause sudden and intense eye pain. This is a medical emergency.

• The pain may be severe and sharp.
• It may come with nausea, vomiting, and headaches.
• If you experience this, seek medical help immediately.

Vision Changes In Dim Lighting

If glaucoma progresses, you may struggle to see in low light or adjust to darkness.

• Walking in a dark room may feel difficult.
• Night driving may become more challenging.

Eye Redness And Discomfort

Your eyes may feel irritated or uncomfortable, especially as the pressure inside the eye increases.

• Your eyes may look red or irritated.
• They may feel sensitive to light.

How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?

Glaucoma does not always cause early symptoms, so regular eye exams are necessary to catch it early. An eye doctor will look for signs of glaucoma before you even notice any vision changes.

To diagnose glaucoma, your eye doctor will perform a comprehensive dilated eye exam. This allows them to take a close look at your optic nerve, eye pressure, and vision. Here are some common tests they may use:

Visual Field Test

Glaucoma might cause blind spots in your vision, often without you realising it. A visual field test helps the doctor check if you have any missing areas in your sight.

• You will be asked to focus on a target while responding to light signals.
• This test maps out your field of vision to detect any changes.

Measuring Eye Pressure

Since eye pressure plays a big role in glaucoma, your doctor will check if it is within a healthy range.

• This test helps determine if extra eye pressure may affect the optic nerve.
• There are different ways to measure eye pressure, and your doctor will use the most suitable method.

Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT)

The optic nerve delivers visual information to your brain. Glaucoma can damage this nerve, so your doctor will examine it carefully.

• OCT helps check for any signs of damage.
• Tracking changes in this nerve over time can help with early detection.

Checking The Eye’s Drainage System

For some people, fluid inside the eye does not drain properly, which can raise pressure levels.

• Your doctor may assess how well fluid drains from your eye.
• If needed, treatment options can help improve fluid flow.

Treatment Options For Glaucoma

Glaucoma can’t be cured, but early management can help slow down vision loss. The goal of management is to lower IOP and protect the optic nerve from further damage. Your eye doctor will suggest the best possible option based on your type of glaucoma, eye pressure levels, and eye health.

Eye Drops

Eye drops are often the first step in managing glaucoma. They help lower eye pressure by improving how fluid drains from the eye or reducing the amount of fluid it produces.

• Eye drops must be used every day as prescribed.
• They help control the pressure inside the eye to prevent further damage.
• It’s important to use eye drops properly to get the best possible results.
• Your doctor may adjust the type or dosage if needed.

Many people use glaucoma eye drops long-term to help manage their condition and keep their vision stable.

Laser Treatment

Laser therapy can help fluid flow more easily from the eye, reducing pressure levels. It is often recommended if eye drops aren’t enough to control the condition.

• This is a comfortable procedure performed by an eye doctor.
• It helps open the drainage angle to improve fluid flow.
• It may reduce or end the need for eye drops in some cases.
• Different types of laser treatments are available depending on the type of glaucoma. Some common laser treatments include:
  • Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT laser): often used for open-angle glaucoma to improve drainage.
  • YAG Laser Iridotomy: typically used for angle-closure glaucoma to create a small opening in the iris, allowing better fluid movement.

Laser therapy is an effective option for many people, but results can vary. Some individuals may need extra treatments over time to maintain healthy eye pressure.

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgeries (MIGS)

Surgical procedures may be suggested for some individuals to help lower IOP and protect vision. MIGS, like iStent and Hydrus, offer faster recovery than traditional surgeries.

• These procedures help fluid drain more efficiently from the eye.
• They can often be performed alongside cataract surgery.
• They may reduce the need for long-term medication.
• Your eye doctor will discuss which surgical options may be suitable for you.

Preventing Glaucoma And Further Vision Loss

Taking care of your eyes and health can lower your risk. Here are some ways you can protect your vision:

• Get regular eye exams to detect glaucoma early.
• Keep high blood pressure and other health issues under control.
• Wear safety glasses to prevent an eye injury.
• Stick to a good lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, exercising, and avoiding smoking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is at higher risk of developing glaucoma?

Some people may have a higher risk of glaucoma if they:

• Have a family history of glaucoma
• Are over 40 years old
• Have high eye pressure
• Have high blood pressure or diabetes
• Have experienced an eye injury

Can glaucoma cause headaches?

Yes, glaucoma can cause headaches. This happens when eye pressure gets too high. It is more common with acute angle-closure glaucoma. But if you have open-angle glaucoma, you may not get headaches.

Can wearing glasses or contact lenses prevent glaucoma?

No, glasses and contact lenses help you see clearly, but they do not stop glaucoma. The best way to protect your vision is to get regular eye check-ups.

Conclusion

Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that can lead to vision loss if not detected and managed early. Yet, there are ways to protect your eyesight.

Getting regular eye check-ups, following your treatment plan, and knowing your risk factors can help you take care of your vision.

Your vision is important. If you have questions about glaucoma or want to check your eye health, we’re here in Melbourne to help.

Book an eye exam today and take a step towards protecting your sight. Contact Armadale Eye Clinic today at (03) 9070 5753 to schedule your appointment!

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Sources

Biggerstaff K S 2024. Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology Dersu I Irak, editor. Medscape. Available at: https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1206147-overview [Accessed February 7, 2025]

George R, Panda S & Vijaya L 2021. Blindness in Glaucoma: Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma Versus Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma—a Meta-Analysis. Eye 36, 2099–2105. 10.1038/s41433-021-01802-9

Reddy N 2024. Laser Surgery for Glaucoma: How It Works and What to Expect. GoodRx. Available at: https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/glaucoma/glaucoma-surgery [Accessed February 7, 2025]

Smith H 2024. What to Know About Early Signs of Glaucoma. Medical News Today. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/early-signs-of-glaucoma [Accessed February 7, 2025]

Taylor M 2023. 11 Tips for Eating for Glaucoma. HealthCentral. Available at: https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/glaucoma-diet-nutrition-tips [Accessed February 7, 2025]