Glaucoma: The “Silent Thief of Sight”, Who Is at Risk and Why Eye Tests Matter

Glaucoma is damage to the optic nerve, often linked to raised pressure inside the eye. The most common type causes no pain and no early symptoms, and the vision it takes cannot be restored. That is why it is called the silent thief of sight, and why eye tests matter.

Imagine missing the edges of the road while driving and only finding out at an eye test that years of side vision are gone. Caught earlier, eye drops could have protected it. A routine test is all it takes.

Types of glaucoma

• Open-angle glaucoma (most common): develops slowly, first affecting side (peripheral) vision, usually without symptoms
• Acute angle-closure glaucoma: a sudden rise in eye pressure and a medical emergency

Emergency signs: go to A&E or an eye emergency service now

• Severe eye pain and a red eye
• Headache, nausea or vomiting
• Blurred vision or seeing rainbow-coloured halos around lights

Who is at higher risk

• People over 40, with risk rising with age
• A close relative with glaucoma
• People of African, Caribbean or Asian family origin
• People with diabetes or high short-sightedness

How it is found and treated

An eye test measures eye pressure, checks the optic nerve and may test your field of vision. Treatment usually starts with daily eye drops to lower pressure; laser treatment or surgery are options. Treatment can’t bring back lost vision, but it can stop or slow further damage.

But my eyesight seems fine. Do I still need tests?

Yes. Early glaucoma doesn’t change how clear things look; it quietly narrows your field of vision, and the other eye compensates. Regular tests (commonly every two years, more often if you are at higher risk) are the only way to catch it early.

Sources: NHS, “Glaucoma”; US National Eye Institute, “Glaucoma”; World Health Organization, “Blindness and vision impairment”. This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from your own nurse, doctor or pharmacist.