Glaucoma vs. Cataracts

Glaucoma and cataracts are two of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide, but they affect the eye in very different ways and require different treatments. Our Redding ophthalmologists break down the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for each condition, so you know what to watch for and when to see an eye doctor. 

While glaucoma and cataracts are eye conditions that can result in eventual blindness and most commonly develop after the age of 40, each is quite different from the other. Around the world, cataracts are the number one cause of blindness, with glaucoma being the number two cause. Fortunately, there are effective treatments for cataracts and glaucoma that can preserve vision. 

Understanding Glaucoma 

Glaucoma is caused by increased fluid pressure on the optic nerve, which interferes with vision. The condition is commonly asymptomatic for years until individuals start to notice more significant changes in vision. Loss of peripheral vision and clear night vision are among the initial visual changes, while pain, blurry vision, light sensitivity, nausea, and halos are signs that the condition has entered its more advanced stages.  

There are two primary types of glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form and progresses slowly, often without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has already occurred. Angle-closure glaucoma, on the other hand, can develop suddenly and is considered a medical emergency requiring immediate care. Certain factors can increase your risk of developing glaucoma, including a family history of the disease, age over 60, elevated eye pressure, and underlying health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. 

As with many eye conditions, early glaucoma detection and treatments are key for preserving vision. Currently there is no cure for glaucoma; however the advanced treatments we provide at Riverside EyeCare Professionals are virtually painless, quick, and can make significant strides in saving vision. 

Understanding Cataracts 

Cataracts are characterized by gradual clouding of the eye’s natural lens. Typical symptoms include blurry/foggy vision, difficulty with night vision, glare, halos, double-vision, and vision loss. Cataracts are a progressive condition and without treatment, they can lead to blindness.  

Cataracts are extremely common and are considered a normal part of aging. Beyond age, other factors that can speed up cataract development include prolonged UV exposure, smoking, diabetes, certain medications such as long-term steroid use, and previous eye injury or surgery. 

The good news is that there is a cure for cataracts: cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is a routine and frequently performed procedure, which involves breaking up and removing the cataract from the eye and replacing the natural lens with an intraocular lens (IOL). Our ophthalmologists have performed many cataract surgeries with success, restoring patients’ clear vision with traditional and state-of-the art IOLs. 

Treatment Options at Riverside EyeCare Professionals 

Glaucoma treatment focuses on lowering pressure in the eye to prevent further damage to the optic nerve. Depending on the severity of the condition, our ophthalmologists may recommend prescription eye drops or laser treatments (such as argon laser trabeculoplasty or endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation). For more advanced cases, traditional surgical procedures may be necessary to create a new drainage pathway for fluid to leave the eye. While glaucoma damage cannot be reversed, these treatments are known to be highly effective at halting or slowing its progression. 

Cataract treatment, by contrast, offers a cure. Once a cataract begins interfering with daily activities like reading, driving, or recognizing faces, cataract surgery can help restore clearer vision. Our team offers a range of IOL options, from standard monofocal lenses to multifocal lenses designed to reduce dependence on glasses after surgery. 

Key Takeaways 

• Glaucoma and cataracts are both age-related eye conditions, but glaucoma damages the optic nerve while cataracts cloud the eye’s natural lens.  
• Glaucoma often has no early symptoms, making regular eye exams essential for catching it before vision loss occurs.  
• There is no cure for glaucoma, but treatments such as eye drops and laser therapy can effectively manage eye pressure and protect vision.  
• Cataracts are treatable and, unlike glaucoma, can be corrected with cataract surgery and an intraocular lens (IOL).  
• Routine eye exams at Riverside EyeCare Professionals are key for catching and managing both conditions early. 

Having trouble with your vision? Or has it been a while since your last vision exam? If so, it’s time for an appointment at Riverside EyeCare Professionals. Our board-certified ophthalmologists, Dr. Michael Sumsion and Dr. Sean Sumsion, perform comprehensive testing to diagnose any problems you may be having. Contact our office to schedule your appointment today!