Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss, yet many people don't realize they have it until their vision is affected. At Clarity Vision in Suffolk, VA, we believe understanding glaucoma and the importance of early detection can help protect your long-term eye health. Below, we answer some of the most common questions patients have about glaucoma.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which carries visual information from your eyes to your brain. This damage is often associated with increased pressure inside the eye, although glaucoma can also develop when eye pressure is within the normal range. Without proper treatment, glaucoma can cause permanent vision loss.

What Are the Early Warning Signs of Glaucoma?

One of the biggest concerns with glaucoma is that it often develops without noticeable symptoms. The most common form, open-angle glaucoma, typically progresses slowly and may affect peripheral vision before central vision.

Some less common forms can cause sudden symptoms, including severe eye pain, redness, blurred vision, headaches, nausea, or halos around lights. These symptoms require immediate emergency medical attention. Because early glaucoma may have no warning signs, routine comprehensive eye exams are essential.

Who Is at Risk for Developing Glaucoma?

Although anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors increase your risk. These include:
 

• Age: Glaucoma becomes more common as people get older.
• Family History: Having a parent or sibling with glaucoma increases your risk.
• Elevated Eye Pressure: Higher pressure inside the eye can contribute to optic nerve damage.
• Medical History: Certain conditions, previous eye injuries, and prolonged corticosteroid use may increase risk.
• Ethnicity: People of African, Hispanic, or Asian ancestry have increased risks for certain types of glaucoma.

If you have any of these risk factors, we recommend discussing your eye health and appropriate screening schedule with our eye doctors in Suffolk, VA.

How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed?

A comprehensive eye exam is the best way to identify signs of glaucoma. Depending on your risk factors and examination findings, testing may include measuring eye pressure, examining the optic nerve, assessing peripheral vision, and using imaging technology to evaluate the optic nerve's structure.

Eye pressure alone cannot confirm or rule out glaucoma. Our goal is to identify concerning changes early and determine whether additional testing or specialized care is necessary.

Can Glaucoma Be Cured?

Currently, there is no cure for glaucoma, and vision already lost to optic nerve damage cannot be restored. However, treatment can help slow or prevent further damage.

Common glaucoma treatments include prescription eye drops, laser procedures, and surgery. The appropriate approach depends on the type and severity of glaucoma. Consistent treatment and follow-up appointments are important for preserving remaining vision.

How Often Should You Have a Glaucoma Screening?

The recommended frequency depends on your age, family history, eye health, and other risk factors. Patients at higher risk may require more frequent examinations. At Clarity Vision, we encourage patients to prioritize regular eye exams, even when their vision seems normal. Early detection provides the best opportunity to protect your eyesight.

If you're concerned about glaucoma, contact Clarity Vision to schedule your eye exam today. Visit our office in Suffolk, VA, or call (757) 638-2015 to book an appointment today.