What Are the Early Signs of Glaucoma?

Glaucoma can be difficult to recognize early because the most common forms often develop without noticeable changes at first. Your vision may seem completely normal, which is why routine eye exams are an important part of identifying glaucoma as early as possible.

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ, board-certified ophthalmologists Dr. Jay L. Schwartz and Dr. Orry Birdsong work alongside experienced optometrists Dr. Marc Bloomenstein, Dr. Kevin Donausky, and Dr. Shay Mohebbi, whose training includes glaucoma management.

Does Glaucoma Have Early Warning Signs?

Often, there are no obvious early warning signs. Open-angle glaucoma, the most common form, generally progresses gradually, and changes may be subtle enough that you do not notice them during everyday activities.

When changes do become noticeable, they can vary according to the type and stage of glaucoma. Possible signs may include:

• Changes in peripheral vision: Side vision may gradually become less complete.
• Difficulty adjusting between lighting conditions: Vision changes may become noticeable when moving between bright and dim environments.
• Blurred or hazy vision: Some forms of glaucoma may affect visual clarity.
• Halos around lights: You may notice rings or halos when looking at light sources.

These changes can also occur with other eye conditions, so an eye examination is needed to determine what may be affecting your vision.

How Is Glaucoma Detected Early?

Because glaucoma may not produce noticeable symptoms, comprehensive eye exams are especially valuable for early detection. Your eye doctor can evaluate several aspects of your eye health rather than relying on symptoms alone.

A glaucoma evaluation may include measuring intraocular pressure, examining the optic nerve, checking peripheral vision, and assessing the eye’s drainage angle. We may also use additional imaging when appropriate.

Regular examinations can be particularly important as you get older or when your eye doctor recommends closer monitoring based on your medical and eye health history.

Schedule a Glaucoma Evaluation in Scottsdale, Glendale, or Mesa

You do not need to wait for noticeable vision changes to discuss glaucoma with an eye doctor. Schwartz Laser Eye Center provides comprehensive eye examinations and glaucoma care at our Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ locations.

Schedule a consultation to learn more about your eye health and recommended examination schedule. Call 480-483-3937 or 1-888-553-3937 to make an appointment.