Glaucoma: symptoms, causes and treatment

Glaucoma is a common eye condition that damages the optic nerve and can lead to permanent sight loss if not detected early. 

It often develops slowly and without symptoms, which is why regular eye tests are essential. 

To mark Glaucoma Awareness Week 2026, Mr Richard Stead, Consultant Ophthalmologist at Newmedica Nottingham and Newmedica’s national clinical glaucoma lead, explains how to spot glaucoma early, understand your risk, and access treatment. 

What is glaucoma? 

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure). 

If left untreated, this damage can lead to gradual and irreversible vision loss. 

What are the symptoms of glaucoma? 

In most cases, glaucoma has no early symptoms. 

It usually develops slowly over time and affects peripheral (side) vision first. This means many people are unaware they have it until the condition has progressed. 

You should be aware of: 

• Gradual loss of side vision 

• Difficulty with navigation or bumping into objects 

• Trips or falls without obvious cause 

Your brain compensates remarkably well for early visual field loss. It’s often only when people begin to struggle with navigation or bump into objects that the impact becomes obvious

Mr Richard Stead

In rarer cases, symptoms can develop suddenly and may include: 

• Severe eye pain 

• Blurred vision 

• Halos around lights 

• Headache or nausea 

These symptoms are a medical emergency and require urgent assessment. 

Why is glaucoma called the ‘silent thief of sight’? 

Glaucoma is known as the ‘silent thief of sight’ because vision loss happens gradually and without noticeable warning signs. 

By the time symptoms appear: 

• Vision loss may already be significant 

• Lost sight cannot be restored 

Treatment is focused on slowing or stopping further progression, which is why detecting the condition as early as possible is critical.

Mr Richard Stead

Why is early detection so important? 

Early detection allows glaucoma to be: 

• Diagnosed before significant damage occurs 

• Monitored effectively over time 

• Treated at the most appropriate stage 

This helps to: 

• Reduce the risk of avoidable sight loss 

• Protect long-term vision 

• Improve quality of life 

 Regular eye examinations are especially important if you: 

• Are over 40 

• Have a family history of glaucoma 

• Are from higher-risk ethnic groups 

• Have other eye conditions 

 Early diagnosis also gives patients time to: 

• Understand their condition 

• Be involved in treatment decisions 

• Plan care around their lifestyle 

How is glaucoma detected? 

Glaucoma is usually detected during a routine eye test by an optometrist. 

This may include: 

• Measuring pressure inside the eye 

• Examining the optic nerve – including OCT scans  

• Assessing visual field (side vision) 

Local opticians are often the first place where a patient learns they may have glaucoma.

Mr Richard Stead

What happens after a referral? (Your patient choice) 

If glaucoma is suspected, you will usually be referred to a specialist for further assessment. 

Patients have a legal right to choose where they receive their care, including: 

• NHS providers 

• Independent providers such as Newmedica 

Great optometrists help patients understand why a referral is being made and what it means. This empowers patients to engage with their care and the options available to them, both NHS and private.

Mr Richard Stead

What treatments are available for glaucoma? 

While there is currently no cure for glaucoma, treatment can slow or stop progression and help preserve your sight. 

Treatment options may include: 

• Laser treatment 

• Eye drops to reduce eye pressure 

• Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) 

• Ongoing monitoring with specialist imaging 

At Newmedica, treatment is tailored to: 

• The stage of the condition 

• Individual patient needs 

• Risk of progression 

Starting treatment at the right time is key to protecting long-term vision. 

How does Newmedica support glaucoma patients? 

Newmedica provides consultant-led glaucoma care across a network of clinics. 

Patients benefit from: 

• Access to experienced glaucoma specialists 

• Advanced diagnostic technology 

• Personalised treatment plans 

• Care closer to home 

Patients benefit from access to experienced glaucoma consultants who provide expert care, treatment and outcomes.

Mr Richard Stead

What should patients remember about glaucoma? 

• Glaucoma often has no early symptoms 

• Regular eye tests are essential 

• Early treatment helps preserve sight 

• Vision lost to glaucoma cannot be recovered 

Frequently asked questions about glaucoma 

Can glaucoma be cured? 

No. There is currently no cure, but treatment can slow or stop the progression of the condition. 

How often should I have an eye test? 

Most people should have an eye test every 2 years, or more often if advised by their optometrist. If there is a family history of glaucoma an annual test is advised over the age of 40.  

Who is most at risk of glaucoma? 

You may be at higher risk if you: 

• Are over 40 

• Have a family history of glaucoma 

• Are from certain ethnic backgrounds 

• Have other eye health conditions 

What should I do if I’m worried about glaucoma? 

Book an eye test with your local optician. Early detection is the best way to protect your sight. 

About Newmedica 

Newmedica provides consultant-led ophthalmology services across the UK, specialising in glaucoma diagnosis, monitoring and treatment.