Glaucoma Awareness Month: Can You Have Eye Disease Without Symptoms?

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We often assume that if something is wrong with our eyes, we'll feel it: pain, discomfort, blurred vision, or at least some warning sign. But what if vision loss could begin silently, without any obvious symptoms? That's exactly what makes glaucoma so dangerous. Known as the "silent thief of sight," glaucoma can slowly damage vision without a person realising it, until the loss becomes permanent. This Glaucoma Awareness Month, it's important to understand how this eye disease works and why early detection matters.

We spoke to Dr Kaushik Dhume, Consultant - Ophthalmology, Manipal Hospital, Goa, who shared insights on the same.

What Is Glaucoma?

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"Just like blood pressure, the eye has its own pressure system, called intraocular pressure. Glaucoma is an eye condition where increased eye pressure damages the optic nerve, which is essential for clear vision. This damage doesn't happen suddenly. It develops slowly over time, which is why many people don't realise they have glaucoma until significant vision loss has already occurred," explained Dr Dhume.

Why Glaucoma Is Called the "Silent Thief of Sight"

"In its early stages, glaucoma usually causes no pain and no noticeable symptoms. Vision loss begins from the sides, affecting peripheral vision first. Because central vision remains normal initially, people often don't notice the changes," added Dr Dhume.

If left untreated, the damage progresses and eventually affects central vision, which can lead to complete blindness.

Why Many Patients Are Diagnosed Late

Since early glaucoma doesn't show clear symptoms, many patients visit an eye specialist only when they start noticing vision problems. Unfortunately, by then, the disease has often reached an advanced stage.

"It's important to understand that vision loss caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed. Treatment can only stop or slow further damage; it cannot restore what has already been lost," warned Dr Dhume.

How Is Glaucoma Treated?

Glaucoma treatment focuses on controlling eye pressure to protect the remaining vision. Depending on the case, treatment may include:

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• Eye drops
• Laser procedures
• Surgery (in some cases)
• Patients must strictly follow their treatment plan and commit to lifelong follow-ups with their eye specialist.

Bottomline

Dr Dhume concluded, "Since the risk of developing glaucoma increases with age, it is advisable for all individuals above the age of 40 years to get an eye examination done at least once a year, as the best way to treat glaucoma is to detect it in its earliest stages and start treatment as early as possible. With proper treatment and compliance, blindness due to glaucoma can be definitely prevented."

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.