At Kirk Eye Center, Dr. John Kirk, a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 30 years of experience, provides advanced glaucoma care, including the latest medical and surgical treatments to help preserve vision. As one of Northern Colorado’s most experienced eye surgeons, Dr. Kirk is committed to early detection and state-of-the-art treatment options to prevent glaucoma-related vision loss for patients in Loveland, Fort Collins, Windsor, and beyond.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma refers to eye diseases that harm the optic nerve, usually because of increased pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure). While there are different types of glaucoma, the most common form—primary open-angle glaucoma—develops slowly, often without obvious symptoms. Other types, such as angle-closure glaucoma, can cause sudden symptoms and require immediate medical attention.
Early Signs of Glaucoma
In its early stages, glaucoma may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, the following warning signs may indicate the presence of the disease:
- Gradual Loss of Peripheral Vision: One of the first signs of open-angle glaucoma is a slow loss of side vision. You may not notice it at first, but it can significantly impact your ability to see objects outside your direct line of sight over time.
- Blurred or Hazy Vision: If you experience episodes of blurred vision, it could be a sign of increased eye pressure.
- Halos Around Lights: If you see halos or rainbow-colored rings around lights, especially at night, it may indicate elevated eye pressure.
- Eye Pain or Pressure: While open-angle glaucoma is often painless, acute angle-closure glaucoma can cause severe eye pain, nausea, and headaches.
- Difficulty Seeing in Low Light: It could be a symptom of optic nerve damage if you find it increasingly difficult to adjust to dim lighting.
- Frequent Changes in Eyeglass Prescription: A rapid and unexplained change in your vision could be a red flag.
Protect Your Vision with Glaucoma Treatment in Loveland, CO
Since early-stage glaucoma symptoms are subtle, regular eye exams are essential—especially if you have risk factors like age over 60, family history of glaucoma, high eye pressure, diabetes, or nearsightedness. Eye doctors can detect glaucoma through comprehensive exams, including tonometry (eye pressure measurement) and optic nerve imaging.
Glaucoma-related vision loss is irreversible, but early detection and treatment can slow or prevent progression. If you experience any of the above symptoms or are at risk, call us today at 970-669-1107 to schedule an eye exam.