Glaucoma

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and support available

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is essential for good vision. This damage is often linked to increased pressure inside the eye. Glaucoma usually develops slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms at first, but if left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss.

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma occurs when the optic nerve becomes damaged, often due to a build-up of pressure in the eye. This pressure is usually caused by fluid not draining properly. Over time, this damage can affect how visual information is sent from the eye to the brain. Glaucoma can affect one or both eyes and often develops gradually, meaning many people are unaware they have it until their vision is affected.

Symptoms of glaucoma

In the early stages, glaucoma often has no noticeable symptoms. As the condition progresses, symptoms may include:

Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
Blurred vision
Seeing halos around lights
Eye pain (in some types of glaucoma)
Redness in the eye
Nausea or headaches (in sudden cases)

Because symptoms can be subtle or absent, regular eye tests are essential for early detection.

What causes glaucoma?

Glaucoma is usually caused by increased pressure in the eye, but it can also occur with normal eye pressure. Factors that may increase your risk include:

Age (more common over 40)
A family history of glaucoma
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure
Being of African, Caribbean, or Asian origin
Long-term use of steroid medications
Eye injuries or previous eye surgery
How is glaucoma treated?

While glaucoma cannot be cured, treatment can help slow or prevent further damage to your vision. Treatment options include:

Eye drops to reduce pressure in the eye
Laser treatment to improve fluid drainage
Surgery to create a new drainage pathway

Treatment is usually ongoing and requires regular monitoring by an eye specialist.

Living with glaucoma

Being diagnosed with glaucoma can feel overwhelming, especially as it often requires long-term management. With the right treatment and support, many people continue to live full and independent lives. It can help to attend regular eye appointments, use prescribed treatments consistently, make adjustments to lighting at home, and seek support if you are finding changes in your vision difficult to manage.

When to seek help

You should seek advice if you notice changes in your vision, especially loss of side vision, or if you experience sudden eye pain, redness, or blurred vision. Sudden symptoms may require urgent medical attention. Regular eye tests are the best way to detect glaucoma early, even before symptoms appear.

Support is available

A glaucoma diagnosis can bring uncertainty, but you don’t have to face it alone. Support is available to help you understand your condition, manage changes in your vision, and maintain your independence. Get in touch with our team for guidance, advice, and ongoing support tailored to your needs.

Frequently asked questions
Can glaucoma be cured?

Glaucoma cannot be cured, but treatment can help prevent or slow further vision loss.

Does glaucoma always lead to blindness?

Not always. With early detection and proper treatment, many people retain useful vision throughout their lives.

How often should I have my eyes tested?

It’s usually recommended to have an eye test every 1–2 years, but your optician may advise more frequent checks if you are at higher risk.

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