Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight,” and for good reason. It typically develops slowly and without pain, making it difficult to notice until permanent vision damage has already occurred. That’s why it’s important to recognize the early warning signs and stay on top of your eye health.
If you need glaucoma treatment in Avon or New Hartford, our experienced eye doctors can detect signs early and recommend the right care to help protect your vision. In this blog, we’ll explain what glaucoma looks like, common signs and symptoms to watch for, and why early diagnosis is critical.
How does glaucoma affect your vision?
Glaucoma usually begins by damaging the optic nerve, often due to high pressure in the eye. Over time, this damage leads to vision loss, starting at the edges. People may notice that their peripheral vision isn’t as sharp or wide as it once was.
In advanced stages, glaucoma can cause tunnel vision or blind spots that slowly grow larger. Left untreated, it can eventually lead to total blindness.
Early signs of glaucoma
Glaucoma often develops without obvious symptoms, which is why regular eye exams are essential for early detection. Some subtle early signs can include:
- Slight loss of peripheral (side) vision
- Eye pressure or discomfort
- Halos around lights, especially at night
- Redness in the eyes
- Frequent changes in glasses prescription
Catching these signs early can help prevent permanent vision damage.
What does glaucoma vision look like?
Glaucoma affects peripheral vision first, so most people won’t notice changes right away. As the condition progresses, vision may appear:
- Blurry around the edges of your visual field
- Like looking through a tunnel, as side vision narrows
- Dim or hazy, especially in low-light environments
Without treatment, glaucoma can lead to total vision loss starting from the periphery and moving inward. This damage is irreversible, but early detection can slow or stop its progression.
Types of glaucoma
There are several types of glaucoma, and each affects the eye differently. Identifying the type of glaucoma is crucial to finding the right treatment. Here are some different types of glaucoma:
- Open-angle glaucoma: The most common type of glaucoma in the United States, where 9 in 10 people with glaucoma have this type1. It progresses slowly and often has no early symptoms. Pressure builds gradually, damaging the optic nerve over time.
- Angle-closure glaucoma: Less common but more serious. It occurs suddenly and causes a rapid rise in eye pressure. Symptoms can include severe eye pain, nausea, and blurred vision.
- Normal-tension glaucoma: Optic nerve damage occurs even though eye pressure is within normal range. The cause isn’t fully understood.
- Congenital glaucoma: A rare form that develops in infants or young children due to abnormal eye development.
- Secondary glaucoma: Caused by another condition such as eye injury, inflammation, or a side effect of medication.
Protecting your vision with regular eye exams
It’s important to schedule comprehensive eye exams because glaucoma can go unnoticed for a long time. Your eye doctor will check your eye pressure, optic nerve health, and visual field to detect any warning signs.
If you need glaucoma treatment near you, our skilled team at Avon Vision Associates and New Hartford Eye Associates provides personalized care to monitor and manage your condition with the latest tools and treatment options.
Book your glaucoma exam today
Glaucoma doesn’t have to steal your sight. With early detection and the right care, you can preserve your vision and quality of life. Schedule your eye exam today at Avon Vision Associates or New Hartford Eye Associates to get the care you need.
References:
- (n.d.). Types of Glaucoma. National Eye Institute. Retrieved August 6, 2025, from https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/glaucoma/types-glaucoma