Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss, often with very few warning signs. Regular eye exams are essential for catching it early. By recognizing certain early indicators, you can take proactive steps to protect your eyesight. Here are ten important signs that suggest you should see an eye doctor for a checkup.
Early onset of reading glasses: Typically, reading glasses are needed around ages 40 to 45. However, you may need them earlier if you are prone to glaucoma.
Frequent changes in your prescription: While it’s normal for your reading prescription to change once a year, if you notice it increasing rapidly, this could indicate a risk for glaucoma.
Family History of Glaucoma: Glaucoma tends to run in families. If you have a family history, make sure to have regular checkups, especially after age 40.
Diabetes: If you are diabetic or have a family history of diabetes, there is an association with glaucoma. Regular eye exams are essential in this case.
Pain and Redness: These can be presenting signs of glaucoma, but they are also non-specific and may indicate other eye conditions.
Colored Halos Around Lights: Seeing rainbow colors around lights, especially at night, can occur with both cataracts and glaucoma. This warrants a visit to your doctor.
High Eye Pressure: This may be an incidental finding during a routine checkup, as high eye pressure often occurs without pain. Regular pressure checks are important.
Painless Blurring of Vision: Blurring in one or both eyes can indicate various eye diseases, including glaucoma, especially if you have predisposing factors like a family history or diabetes.
Steroid Use: Those on steroid therapy—whether oral or in the form of eye drops—should be vigilant, as steroids can lead to glaucoma. Regular eye checks are crucial.
Age: Anyone over 40 should be particularly mindful of these signs and prioritize regular eye exams to detect any potential issues early.
By being aware of these early warning signs and the importance of regular eye exams, you can help safeguard your vision against glaucoma.
(Author: Dr. Anita Sethi, Principal Director & HOD - Opthalmology, Max Multi Speciality Centre, Panchsheel park)
Early onset of reading glasses: Typically, reading glasses are needed around ages 40 to 45. However, you may need them earlier if you are prone to glaucoma.
Frequent changes in your prescription: While it’s normal for your reading prescription to change once a year, if you notice it increasing rapidly, this could indicate a risk for glaucoma.
Family History of Glaucoma: Glaucoma tends to run in families. If you have a family history, make sure to have regular checkups, especially after age 40.
Diabetes: If you are diabetic or have a family history of diabetes, there is an association with glaucoma. Regular eye exams are essential in this case.
Pain and Redness: These can be presenting signs of glaucoma, but they are also non-specific and may indicate other eye conditions.
Colored Halos Around Lights: Seeing rainbow colors around lights, especially at night, can occur with both cataracts and glaucoma. This warrants a visit to your doctor.
High Eye Pressure: This may be an incidental finding during a routine checkup, as high eye pressure often occurs without pain. Regular pressure checks are important.
Painless Blurring of Vision: Blurring in one or both eyes can indicate various eye diseases, including glaucoma, especially if you have predisposing factors like a family history or diabetes.
Steroid Use: Those on steroid therapy—whether oral or in the form of eye drops—should be vigilant, as steroids can lead to glaucoma. Regular eye checks are crucial.
Age: Anyone over 40 should be particularly mindful of these signs and prioritize regular eye exams to detect any potential issues early.
By being aware of these early warning signs and the importance of regular eye exams, you can help safeguard your vision against glaucoma.
(Author: Dr. Anita Sethi, Principal Director & HOD - Opthalmology, Max Multi Speciality Centre, Panchsheel park)
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