Can Glaucoma Cause Blindness? What You Need to Know

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness - but it’s also one of the most preventable. Because it often develops without pain or early symptoms, many people don’t realize they have glaucoma until significant vision loss has already occurred. At Sylvain Eye Care P.C., we offer comprehensive glaucoma exams in Atlanta to detect the earliest signs of the disease, protect your optic nerve, and help you maintain healthy vision for years to come.
 

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, typically due to elevated pressure inside the eye. Your optic nerve acts as the cable that delivers visual information to the brain. When this nerve becomes compromised, vision loss can occur.

There are several types of glaucoma, including:

• Open-angle glaucoma - the most common and slowest progressing form

• Angle-closure glaucoma - a rapid-onset emergency requiring immediate care

• Normal-tension glaucoma - optic nerve damage occurs even with normal eye pressure

Regardless of the type, early detection is the best defense.
 

Can Glaucoma Cause Blindness?

Yes, glaucoma can cause blindness if left untreated. However, the vast majority of glaucoma-related blindness is preventable with timely diagnosis and proper management.

Glaucoma slowly damages the optic nerve fibers. At first, peripheral (side) vision is affected, which is why many people don’t notice any symptoms. Over time, the loss creeps inward toward central vision. If the damage continues unchecked, total blindness can occur. Unfortunately, vision loss from glaucoma cannot be restored. This is why proactive care and routine exams are critical.
 

Warning Signs to Look Out For

Many people don’t experience noticeable symptoms until glaucoma has advanced. Still, certain signs can indicate a problem:

• Subtle peripheral vision loss

• Blurred or hazy vision

• Halos around lights

• Eye pain or pressure (more common in angle-closure glaucoma)

• Severe headache and nausea (emergency symptoms)

If you experience sudden eye pain, vision changes, or nausea, seek immediate care.
 

How Glaucoma Is Diagnosed

A comprehensive glaucoma exam includes several tests to evaluate the health of your optic nerve and measure eye pressure. At Sylvain Eye Care P.C., we may perform:

• Tonometry to measure eye pressure

• Visual field testing to assess peripheral vision

• Angle assessment to determine the type of glaucoma

These tests help us catch signs of glaucoma early - often before you notice any symptoms.
 

Schedule Your Glaucoma Exam Today

Glaucoma can cause blindness, but early detection is the key to protecting your vision. Because the disease often progresses silently, routine eye care is essential - especially if you’re at higher risk. We provide thorough glaucoma exams and management in Atlanta to help safeguard your sight and support your long-term eye health.

Protect your vision with a glaucoma exam at Sylvain Eye Care P.C. to stay ahead of vision loss. Visit our office in Atlanta, Georgia, or call (404) 341-4350 to book an appointment today.