Glaucoma, often referred to as the “silent thief of sight,” can sneak up on you without noticeable symptoms until it progresses to the late stages. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the early signs of glaucoma, including the possibility of headaches. In this blog, we’ll take a look at a few types of glaucoma, whether or not they can cause headaches, and how to protect your eyesight.
1. Acute angle-closure glaucoma
This is a medical emergency and a less common form of glaucoma. It happens when the drainage angle in the eye suddenly becomes blocked, leading to a rapid increase in eye pressure. Symptoms of acute angle-closure glaucoma often include:
- Severe headaches
- Eye pain
- Blurred vision
- Nausea and vomiting
- Halos around lights
With this type of glaucoma, the headaches are typically intense and may be accompanied by pain radiating from the eye to the forehead or temple.
2. Open-angle glaucoma
The most common type of glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma progresses slowly and often without noticeable symptoms. While headaches are not typically associated with this type of glaucoma, some patients report mild headaches due to prolonged eye strain or pressure changes. However, these symptoms are generally not as severe as those experienced in acute angle-closure glaucoma.
3. Normal-tension glaucoma
Even people with normal eye pressure can develop glaucoma. Headaches are less common in this type, but some patients report tension-like headaches, most likely due to subtle changes in eye pressure or strain on the optic nerve.
4. Secondary glaucoma
Secondary glaucoma refers to any form of glaucoma where there is a known cause of increased eye pressure, such as an eye injury, inflammation, or tumor. In these cases, headaches can occur due to the underlying cause affecting the eye’s internal structures and pressure.
Other conditions to consider
Not all headaches are related to glaucoma. Common causes of headaches include migraines, sinus issues, and tension headaches. If you’re experiencing persistent headaches along with vision problems, it’s essential to consult an eye care professional to rule out glaucoma and other serious conditions.
Treating glaucoma and relieving headaches
Effective glaucoma management can often reduce associated headaches. Treatment options for glaucoma include:
- Medications: Prescription eye drops or oral medications to lower eye pressure.
- Laser Therapy: Procedures like laser trabeculoplasty or iridotomy improve fluid drainage.
- Surgery: In advanced cases, surgery is a good option for creating new pathways for fluid to leave the eye.
For acute angle-closure glaucoma, immediate medical attention is critical to relieve symptoms and prevent permanent vision loss. If you are experiencing severe headaches accompanied by eye pain, sudden blurred vision or halos around lights, vision loss, or nausea and vomiting, please contact our team at Giles Eye Care immediately for professional care. Additionally, if you are due for a check-up or have concerns about any changes in your vision, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our dedicated eye care team in Portland, Maine, is here to provide comprehensive eye care and ensure your vision remains as clear as possible.