Eye diseases
Glaucoma: early signs, symptoms and why regular eye checks matter
Glaucoma is a condition that damages the optic nerve, usually because of high pressure inside the eye. It often develops slowly, and you might not notice any change in your vision until it's advanced — which is why regular eye checks matter.
Urgent: Sudden eye pain with headache or nausea, or rainbow-coloured rings around lights, needs urgent care — go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
What is glaucoma?
The optic nerve carries what you see from your eye to your brain. In glaucoma it is gradually damaged, usually because of high eye pressure. If it isn't treated, glaucoma can lead to complete vision loss.
Symptoms of glaucoma
- In the early stages, there may be no symptoms
- Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
- Blurry or hazy vision
- Eye pain, headache or nausea (in some cases)
- Seeing rainbow-coloured rings around lights
How is glaucoma treated?
Glaucoma can be controlled with medication, laser treatment or surgery. Early detection is key to preventing further damage — treatment protects the vision you still have.
Why regular eye examinations matter
Because early glaucoma often has no symptoms, an eye examination may be the first place it's noticed. If you notice any of the symptoms above, see an eye care professional as soon as possible.
Frequently asked questions
When to go to a hospital instead
Go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately if you have:
- Sudden loss of vision
- Flashes of light or a shower of new floaters
- Eye injury or chemical splash
- Severe eye pain or a very red, painful eye
- Double vision that comes on suddenly