Vision changes are not always easy to pick up early. In some cases, they happen slowly, without clear symptoms at first.
Glaucoma can develop in this way and is often referred to as the ‘silent thief of sight’. It affects the optic nerve over time, and any damage is irreversible, which is why early assessment is important. At Dr Dony Mathew | Cape Town Eye Centre, your eyes are examined so you understand what is happening and what needs attention.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma refers to a group of conditions that affect the optic nerve. This nerve transmits visual information from your eye to your brain.
In many cases, it is associated with increased pressure inside the eye, although it can also occur when pressure appears normal. The main concern is that changes can develop gradually, which is why regular check-ups are important.
Are there early signs to look out for?
Glaucoma often develops without clear symptoms at first. You may not notice any changes until your vision is already affected.
In some cases, you might become aware of:
Gradual loss of side vision
Difficulty adjusting in low light
Changes that feel subtle but persistent
If you have a family history of glaucoma or other eye conditions, it is worth having your eyes assessed even if your vision feels stable.
How is glaucoma assessed?
The aim is to detect changes before they begin to affect your vision.
Your assessment may include:
Measuring the pressure inside your eye
Examining the optic nerve
Checking your field of vision
If there are wider concerns about your vision or risk factors, these can be looked at more closely during a full evaluation of your eye health.
As an ophthalmologist in Bellville, Dr Dony Mathew focuses on identifying early signs and monitoring changes over time.
How is glaucoma managed?
Glaucoma cannot be reversed, but it can be controlled once diagnosed. The goal is to slow or halt further damage to your vision. Management depends on your specific findings and may include regular monitoring or treatment to regulate eye pressure.
If anything unusual is noted at the back of your eye, this can be looked at more closely during a retinal assessment.
What should you do next?
If it has been a while since your last eye check-up, or if you have a family history of glaucoma, it is advisable to have your eyes examined. A comprehensive assessment can help identify changes early and guide you on the next steps with an eye specialist in Bellville.