Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that affects millions of people and is a leading cause of permanent vision loss. Because it often develops without noticeable symptoms, many patients don’t realize they have glaucoma until vision damage has already occurred. Understanding how glaucoma affects vision and how early treatment can help plays a critical role in protecting long-term eye health.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage is most often associated with elevated intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eye), though glaucoma can also occur with normal eye pressure.

The most common form, primary open-angle glaucoma, develops gradually and painlessly. Because vision loss starts in the peripheral vision, many people are unaware they have glaucoma until significant damage has already occurred.

Can Glaucoma Cause Blindness?

Glaucoma can cause blindness, and any vision loss it causes is permanent. Once the optic nerve fibers are damaged, they cannot be restored. If glaucoma progresses without treatment, peripheral vision continues to narrow, eventually leading to tunnel vision and, in advanced cases, total blindness.

However, it’s important to understand that blindness from glaucoma is largely preventable. With regular eye exams and timely treatment, disease progression can often be slowed or stopped.

Why Glaucoma Is So Dangerous

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because:

• It usually has no early symptoms

• Vision loss occurs gradually

• Damage is irreversible

By the time noticeable vision changes occur, the disease may already be advanced. This is why routine comprehensive eye exams are critical - especially for individuals at higher risk.

Who Is at Higher Risk for Glaucoma?

Certain factors increase the risk of developing glaucoma, including:

• Age 60 and older

• Family history of glaucoma

• African American, Hispanic, or Asian heritage

• Elevated eye pressure

• Diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease

• Previous eye injuries or long-term steroid use

If you fall into any of these categories, regular eye exams are especially important.

What If I Get Diagnosed with Glaucoma?

While there is no cure for glaucoma, treatment is highly effective at preventing further vision loss. Treatment options may include:
 

• Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure

• Oral medications in certain cases

• Laser procedures to improve fluid drainage

• Surgical treatments for advanced or hard-to-control glaucoma

The goal of treatment is to reduce eye pressure and protect the optic nerve. Early diagnosis allows for more treatment options and better long-term outcomes.

Stay Ahead of Vision Loss with The Eye Center of Virginia

Glaucoma-related vision loss is permanent, but with early diagnosis, consistent treatment, and regular monitoring, most patients can maintain their vision and quality of life. Awareness and proactive eye care are your best defenses against this silent disease.

Schedule your annual eye exam at The Eye Center of Virginia to detect glaucoma early and safeguard your sight for the future. Visit our office in Williamsburg, Virginia, or call (757) 919-3500 to book an appointment today.