Glaucoma Vs. Cataracts — How To Differentiate Between Two Common Eye Conditions

Cataracts and glaucoma, common in older adults, impact vision differently. Knowing their causes, signs, and treatments helps ensure timely diagnosis and better chances of recovery.

How To Differentiate Between Glaucoma And Cataracts?

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{By: Dr Digvijay Singh} 

Cataracts and glaucoma are two eye ailments frequently encountered by people in the later years of life due to aging. While both may affect vision, they differ greatly in terms of causes, symptoms, and treatment methods. Having knowledge of such information makes it easier for one to have an accurate diagnosis and a greater chance for an effective treatment plan. 

What Is Glaucoma? 

Glaucoma is an eye disease characterised by the damage of the optic nerve, usually caused by raised eye pressure. Optic nerve damage progresses slowly and most patients do not realise it until a considerable amount of vision has already been lost. It is commonly referred to as the ‘silent thief of sight’ for this reason. There are two major forms of glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma, the most common type, leads to gradual vision loss while angle-closure glaucoma can cause a sudden and drastic increase in eye pressure which is very painful and can result in immediate loss of vision. If glaucoma is not treated in time, the patient’s sight may become permanently lost. 

What Is Cataract? 

Cataracts is defined as the opacificatio of the natural lens of the eye and as the condition advances so does blurriness of vision. Primarily cataracts are the consequence of aging, but it may also stem from diabetes, long-term use of steroids, and injuries to the eye. Cataracts differ from glaucoma in that the optic nerve is not destroyed and hence one does not go permanently blind.

They lead to symptoms such as inability to see clearly, diminished colors, light sensitivity, and challenges in nocturnal visibility. 

What Are The Defining Differences? 

Both glaucoma and cataracts impact an individual's vision. Glaucoma causes permanent vision loss due to optic nerve damage, whereas cataracts cloud the lens but can be surgically corrected for near-perfect vision. Cataracts do cause changes in vision while glaucoma does not exhibit any early symptoms. 

Options For Treatment 

Prescription eye drops and surgical options such as laser treatment or even surgery are required to manage glaucoma in the long term. In contrast, cataracts can simply be treated by surgically removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a prosthetic lens. 

Signs That Indicate It's Time To Consult An Ophthalmologist 

People experiencing gradual vision impairment, especially in the peripheral vision, difficulties in seeing low-light environments, or advanced light sensitivity must make merit of consulting an eye specialist. Regardless of symptoms, routine eye examinations are crucial for timely detection and treatment for both conditions. 

While both glaucoma and cataracts impact an individual's vision, they are two distinctly different conditions requiring different treatment plans. Complete surgical intervention can treat cataracts, whereas glaucoma needs continuous effort to postpone irreversible vision loss.

To preserve your eyesight and spot any problems at an early stage, routine eye examinations are the ideal option. In case you detect any difference or alteration in your vision, do not procrastinate, arrange for an eye examination at once.

The author, Dr Digvijay Singh, is the Director at Noble Eye Care, Gurugram

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]