Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if not detected and treated early. While it typically affects both eyes, it does not always progress at the same rate. In some cases, one eye may deteriorate faster than the other, making it even more important to monitor the condition closely. Understanding how glaucoma can develop unevenly and why early detection matters is key to protecting your vision for the long term.
 

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is essential for clear vision. This damage is often caused by elevated pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure, although glaucoma can also occur with normal eye pressure. Over time, the increased pressure can lead to gradual vision loss, starting with peripheral vision and eventually affecting central vision if left untreated. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide and is particularly dangerous because it often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages.
 

Understanding the Progression of Glaucoma

While glaucoma typically affects both eyes, it does not always do so at the same rate. In some cases, one eye may show more advanced damage than the other, or the pressure levels may differ significantly between eyes. This is known as asymmetric or unilateral glaucoma progression.
 

Several factors can contribute to this uneven progression:

• Variation in intraocular pressure (IOP): If one eye consistently has a higher IOP, it is at greater risk of optic nerve damage.

• Structural differences in the optic nerves: One eye may be more vulnerable to damage due to natural anatomical differences.

• Differences in blood flow or vascular health: Poor blood flow in one eye can make it more susceptible to glaucoma damage.

• Compliance with treatment: If medication is not applied evenly or correctly in both eyes, one eye may be less protected.
   

Because the progression is often slow and painless, many patients are unaware that one eye is deteriorating more quickly until they experience a noticeable loss in vision.
 

The Importance of Routine Glaucoma Screenings

Routine glaucoma screenings are vital in detecting early signs of the disease before symptoms appear. These screenings typically involve measuring eye pressure, inspecting the optic nerve, testing peripheral vision, and using imaging technology to detect changes over time.
 

When glaucoma is detected early, steps can be taken to slow or halt its progression. Early treatment can help preserve vision and maintain quality of life. Even if you are not experiencing any visual symptoms, annual comprehensive eye exams are key, especially if you are over the age of 40 or have a family history of glaucoma.
 

Protect Your Sight at Optometry Medical Group

Glaucoma can progress faster in one eye than the other due to differences in pressure, structure, or vascular health. This makes routine screenings essential in identifying and managing the disease early.
 

Schedule your routine eye exam at Optometry Medical Group to stay ahead of glaucoma before it impacts your vision. Visit our offices in Seattle, Washington, call (206) 322-6915 for our Rainier office, or call (206) 395-2285 for our Madison office.