Experiencing eye pain and seeing rainbow halos around lights may signal “glaucoma,” a condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if untreated. Glaucoma is caused by high intraocular pressure that damages the optic nerve, potentially resulting in progressive vision loss and even blindness.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye condition where elevated pressure in the eye damages the optic nerve. This pressure affects the transmission of signals from the eye to the brain, gradually narrowing vision and, if untreated, possibly causing blindness.

Types of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is classified into two main types:

1. Open-Angle Glaucoma
The most common type, usually painless and with no early symptoms, leading to gradual vision loss.
2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma
A rarer but severe type, causing sudden eye pain, rainbow halos around lights, blurred vision, and rapid vision loss if untreated.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

Many are unaware they are at risk since symptoms may not appear until later stages. Warning signs include:

• Eye pain, often felt around the eyes
• Rainbow halos around bright lights (car headlights, street lights)
• Blurred vision, particularly in low light
• Narrowing vision, losing peripheral sight
• Red eyes and nausea, especially if intraocular pressure rises suddenly

If you experience these symptoms, seek an eye doctor immediately. Early treatment can slow optic nerve damage and prevent vision loss.

Glaucoma Risk Factors

Several factors contribute to glaucoma risk, including genetics and health conditions:

• Genetics: Family history increases risk due to inherited genes, especially if those genes regulate intraocular pressure.
• Age: People over 40, especially older adults, are at greater risk.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and severe myopia or hyperopia can increase glaucoma risk.
• Medication: Steroid use can elevate intraocular pressure, increasing the chance of glaucoma.
• Eye Injuries: Trauma to the eye or head can disrupt intraocular pressure regulation.
• High Intraocular Pressure: Elevated eye pressure is the leading cause of glaucoma.

Genetic Testing for Glaucoma Risk with Geneus DNA

Genetic testing, such as Geneus DNA’s advanced Whole Genome-wide Array technology, can evaluate genetic risks associated with glaucoma by analyzing genes like MYOC, OPTN, and WDR36. This testing allows early detection of high-risk individuals, even without symptoms, enabling proactive eye care and personalized treatment planning.

With Geneus DNA, patients gain critical insights into their genetic risk of glaucoma, helping them take preventive steps to avoid vision loss.

Preventing and Managing Glaucoma

Regular eye exams are key, especially for those at higher risk. Recommended treatments for glaucoma include:

• Eye Drops: To lower eye pressure.
• Laser Treatment: To improve eye pressure control.
• Surgery: For severe cases unresponsive to other treatments.

Eye pain and halos around lights should not be ignored, as they may be early signs of glaucoma. Early diagnosis and treatment can protect vision and prevent future blindness.

Therefore, don't disregard any warning signs from your eyes. Schedule regular eye exams to detect glaucoma early and maintain eye health for years to come.