Glaucoma is a condition that damages the optic nerve and can be hereditary. It can occur at any age but is more common in older adults, causing vision loss and irreversible blindness.

According to Associate Professor, Doctor Bui Thi Van Anh of the High-Tech Eye Center at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, glaucoma is a complex disease. It can appear suddenly with clear acute signs, but many cases progress silently. A characteristic of glaucoma is increased pressure in the eyeball (increased intraocular pressure). Here are some common signs of the disease.

Severe headaches

Severe headaches are an easily recognizable sign, often occurring suddenly in people with glaucoma. This is due to the complete blockage of the fluid drainage angle, causing a rapid increase in pressure within the eyeball, also known as angle-closure glaucoma. This stimulates the sensory nerves around the eyeball and in the forehead and temple area, leading to pain. The pain is usually located in the forehead, temples, or around the eye socket, and can spread to one side of the head. Some cases are accompanied by headaches, nausea, and vomiting.

Seeing halos around lights

People with angle-closure glaucoma may see colorful halos when looking at light sources. Increased intraocular pressure causes corneal edema, which scatters light intensely, especially when looking at point light sources like car headlights or streetlights. Angle-closure glaucoma is an emergency; if not treated promptly within a few hours, it can cause permanent vision loss. The disease is easily mistaken for simple dizziness or fatigue, leading to delayed treatment, according to Associate Professor Van Anh.

Associate Professor Van Anh performing glaucoma surgery. Photo: Tam Anh Hospital

Associate Professor Van Anh performing glaucoma surgery. Photo: Tam Anh Hospital

Cloudy eyes

This symptom usually appears in congenital glaucoma. High intraocular pressure causes the cornea to become cloudy. In some cases of congenital glaucoma, the pupil (the black part of the eye) is dilated, making the child sensitive to light. This manifests as tearing, frequent blinking, and bowing the head to avoid light. Congenital glaucoma can be hereditary.

Vision loss

Severe glaucoma affects the optic nerves, causing vision loss, usually starting from the periphery (peripheral vision). The disease progresses gradually, causing the field of vision to narrow, like looking through binoculars. If the disease is not well controlled, the patient can lose their sight completely.

If glaucoma causes damage to the optic nerves, the lost vision cannot be restored. Associate Professor Van Anh recommends regular eye exams for early detection and timely intervention. People over 40 are at high risk, but younger people and children can also develop this condition. Some factors that can increase the risk include family history, high blood pressure, diabetes, long-term corticosteroid use, eye injuries, or eye surgery.

Khue Lam