Glaucoma damages the optic nerve without pain or early symptoms. Learn who is at risk, how eye pressure and optic nerve checks detect it early, and why screening after 40 protects your sight.
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the cable that carries vision from the eye to the brain. It is called the “silent thief of sight” because the most common type causes no pain and no early symptoms. By the time people notice, a large part of their side vision may already be lost, and that loss cannot be reversed. Early detection is the best protection.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
- Age over 40, and risk rises further with age
- Family history of glaucoma: parents, brothers or sisters
- Diabetes and high blood pressure
- High short-sightedness or long-sightedness
- Long-term use of steroid medicines, including steroid eye drops or creams around the eyes
- Previous eye injury
Types of Glaucoma
Open-angle glaucoma
The most common type. Damage develops slowly over years, starting with the peripheral (side) vision. There are no warning signs.
Angle-closure glaucoma
The drainage angle of the eye blocks suddenly. Symptoms include severe eye pain, headache, red eye, blurred vision, halos around lights, nausea or vomiting. This is an emergency; seek care immediately. See Eye Emergency in Haripur.
How Is Glaucoma Detected?
Screening during a diabetic and glaucoma screening or a full eye exam can include:
- Eye pressure (intraocular pressure) measurement
- Optic nerve assessment by looking at the back of the eye
- Asking about family history and medicines
If anything looks suspicious, you will be referred to an ophthalmologist for detailed tests such as visual field testing and OCT scans, and for treatment.
Treatment
Glaucoma cannot be cured, but it can usually be controlled. Treatment, prescribed by an ophthalmologist, may include daily pressure-lowering eye drops, laser treatment or surgery. The goal is to stop further damage.
Living with glaucoma: key habits
- Use drops every day exactly as prescribed, even when you feel fine
- Never stop drops because a bottle ran out; get a refill in time
- Keep every follow-up appointment
- Tell your brothers, sisters and children to get screened
How Often Should You Be Checked?
| Your situation | Suggested check |
|---|---|
| Age 40+ with no risk factors | Every 1–2 years |
| Family history, diabetes or high myopia | Yearly, or as advised |
| Diagnosed glaucoma | As scheduled by your ophthalmologist |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can glasses cure glaucoma?
No. Glasses correct focus, not optic nerve damage. That is why a routine glasses check should also include eye health screening.
If my eyesight is 6/6, can I still have glaucoma?
Yes. Central vision often stays sharp until late. Only a proper check can rule it out.
Is screening available at the free Sunday camp?
Our Sunday camp offers basic screening; for a full assessment, book a weekday appointment.
Visit Sardar Eye Clinic & Optics, Haripur
Railway Station Road, Central Jail Bazar, Haripur · Open 7 days, 10am – 8:30pm · Free eye camp every Sunday, 10am – 2pm
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Medically reviewed by
Optometrist at Sardar Eye Clinic & Optics, Railway Station Road, Haripur, BS Optometry (Khyber Medical University) and hospital training at HMC Peshawar and Abbottabad Medical Complex, experienced in eye examinations, glasses and contact-lens prescriptions, and children’s eye care. This article is for general information — book an eye test for advice about your own eyes.
