How Can Glaucoma Affect Your Daily Life and Activities?

Glaucoma is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight,” and for good reason. This group of eye conditions gradually damages the optic nerve, often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Left untreated, glaucoma can lead to irreversible vision loss and significantly impact your ability to perform everyday tasks.
 

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve, typically due to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). The optic nerve is essential for transmitting visual information from your eyes to your brain. When this nerve is compromised, it can result in progressive vision loss, often beginning with peripheral vision.
 

There are several types of glaucoma, with the most common being primary open-angle glaucoma, which develops slowly and painlessly. Another form, angle-closure glaucoma, is less common but can develop rapidly and requires immediate medical attention.
 

How Glaucoma Affects Your Vision

One of the most concerning aspects of glaucoma is how subtly it can develop. Many people don’t realize they have the condition until they begin losing vision. Early on, glaucoma primarily affects peripheral vision, which may go unnoticed. As the condition progresses, it can lead to tunnel vision and, in advanced stages, complete blindness. Because the vision loss caused by glaucoma is permanent, early detection and treatment are critical.
 

How Glaucoma Can Impact Daily Life

Even in the early stages, glaucoma can begin to affect your quality of life. As peripheral vision diminishes, you may find it harder to:
 

• Drive safely, especially at night or when changing lanes
• Navigate crowded areas without bumping into objects or people
• Read or use a computer, particularly if vision becomes blurry or narrow
• Participate in hobbies like sports, crafting, or gardening that require full visual awareness
• Maintain independence, as progressive vision loss can limit mobility and increase the risk of falls

Why Regular Glaucoma Screenings Are Crucial

Since glaucoma can progress silently, routine eye exams are the best defense. During a comprehensive eye exam at Eye Rx, our team checks for signs of elevated eye pressure, evaluates your optic nerve, and may conduct visual field testing to detect any early changes. Early detection allows for timely treatment, such as medicated eye drops, laser therapy, or surgical procedures that help lower eye pressure and preserve your remaining vision.
 

Protect Your Sight at Eye Rx

With regular screenings and early intervention, you can manage the condition effectively and continue living life with confidence. At Eye Rx in Chevy Chase, MD, we are committed to helping you safeguard your vision for the long term.
 

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Eye Rx and make glaucoma screenings a regular part of your wellness routine. Contact our office in Chevy Chase, MD, by calling (301) 450-8300 to book an appointment today.