Glaucoma is a condition that has variable presentation; however, at the end-stage of the condition, loss of eyesight is inevitable. In order to avoid that or delay the inevitable changes, owners and vets must be educated to the signs that shouldn’t be missed and if or when in doubt seek advice from a veterinary ophthalmologist.
Why early detection is important
Detecting small and subtle changes early in the disease process will not only preserve vision for longer, but usually has a more favourable outcome in terms of the available treatment options for glaucoma. Detecting early signs of the problem and seeking advice from your vets who can refer you to a veterinary ophthalmologist will in most cases preserve your dog’s vision for longer and ensure they are not suffering from pain and discomfort.
Early signs of glaucoma in dogs
One of the early concerning signs is the change in the size of the pupil between the two eyes, especially in well lit rooms. If you notice an obvious difference between the two eyes of your dog, with one of the pupils being larger compared to the other, despite being in a room with a lot of light or outside playing on a sunny day, you should get your dog checked by a vet as soon as possible.
Changes in the size of the pupil occur when the pressure starts to build up in the eye and are accompanied and followed by subsequent additional changes.
Other signs not to miss include redness around the white part of the eye, clouding of the surface of the eye or persistent pawing at one or both sides of the face.
Behavioural Changes
Most dogs suffering from glaucoma will develop certain behavioural changes, especially when the pressure in the eye is significantly increased.
Dogs suffering from glaucoma tend to be more withdrawn, less interested in food and treats, will try to find dark places to hide and will be less interested in going out for walks and exploring. In addition, vision changes will most likely be noted, such as bumping into things, being unable to judge steps very well and being more hesitant to walk at night.
Sudden Vision Loss
Glaucoma tends to affect both eyes; however, both eyes are unlikely to be affected at the same time in most cases. If your dog develops sudden vision loss or sudden blindness, it is a sign that either both of their eyes have been affected simultaneously by the same, acute problem or that one of their eyes has already been blind for a little while and they are suddenly struggling to navigate or to find their way around because the eye they were, up until now, able to see out of has suddenly become blind.
Can early glaucoma be treated or managed?
Early diagnosis of the problem allows us to explore possible medical or surgical options. In cases where glaucoma is suspected or has been diagnosed in one of the eyes already, using preventative treatment (such as laser procedures) can in some cases delay development of glaucoma to the other eye and preserve your dog’s vision for longer.
Diagnosing the problem early allows us to start using certain medications and eye drops for the treatment of glaucoma and reduce the elevated pressure early in the disease process. This aims to preserve the pressure in the eye at a lower threshold, which has a better long-term prognosis for the eye, vision and your dog’s comfort.
Even late stage glaucoma can be effectively treated with drops or a combination of drops and medical or surgical procedures (lasers or shunt placement) to ensure that your dog is not suffering from pain and ongoing discomfort.
When to see a veterinary ophthalmologist
If your dog is showing signs of reduced vision and clouding of one or both eyes, it would be sensible to organise an appointment with your vets and ask for a referral to an ophthalmologist as soon as possible.
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