What You Need to Know About Glaucoma and Regular Eye Exams

What You Need to Know About Glaucoma and Regular Eye Exams

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide, and Singapore is no exception. Often called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma develops slowly and without obvious early warning signs. By the time symptoms appear, significant vision damage may already have occurred.
That’s why regular eye exams are essential. At Spectacle Hut, we provide comprehensive eye exams to help detect glaucoma early, giving you the best chance to protect your eyesight.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye disease caused by damage to the optic nerve, usually linked to high pressure inside the eye. Left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss.

There are two main types of glaucoma:

  • Open-angle glaucoma
    The most common form, developing gradually without noticeable symptoms.
  • Angle-closure glaucoma
    Less common but more severe, developing suddenly with intense symptoms that require immediate medical attention.

Early Warning Signs of Glaucoma

Glaucoma often develops silently, but some glaucoma symptoms to watch for include:

  • Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
  • Blurred or hazy vision.
  • Seeing halos around lights
  • Eye pain or redness (especially in acute cases)
  • Headaches and nausea (with angle-closure glaucoma)

Since symptoms can be subtle, many people don’t realise they have glaucoma until it’s advanced. This makes regular eye examinations at Spectacle Hut vital for early detection.

Why Regular Eye Exams Are So Important

A professional vision check can detect glaucoma in its early stages, even before symptoms appear. Regular eye exams are especially important if you:

  • Are over the age of 40
  • Have a family history of glaucoma
  • Suffer from diabetes or high blood pressure
  • Are highly myopic (short-sighted)

At Spectacle Hut, our optometrists use advanced equipment to measure eye pressure, examine the optic nerve, and assess overall eye health, so you can stay one step ahead of glaucoma.

Managing Glaucoma

While glaucoma cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively with early detection and proper care. Treatment options include:

  • Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure
  • Laser therapy
  • Surgery for severe cases

The earlier glaucoma is identified, the more successful these treatments can be in slowing progression and preserving vision.

Take the First Step with Spectacle Hut

Glaucoma may be a silent condition, but with regular eye exams with Spectacle Hut, you don’t have to be caught off guard. Stay proactive and protect your vision. Book an Appointment with Spectacle Hut today.