Glaucoma is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight,” and for good reason. Many people may not notice any symptoms until it’s too late. But what exactly is glaucoma, and how can you protect your vision? We spoke to Mr Vincent Dubois, a consultant ophthalmologist, who explains what glaucoma is, how it develops, its symptoms, and the treatment options available. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know, ensuring you can protect your eye health.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a disease that affects the optic nerve, which is located at the back of the eye. This nerve is responsible for carrying visual information from your eyes to your brain, allowing you to see. When the optic nerve is damaged, it can lead to a gradual loss of vision. This damage is usually caused by an increase in pressure within the eye, known as intraocular pressure.
Unfortunately, glaucoma often doesn’t present any early symptoms. You might not realise anything is wrong until your vision starts to decline. This is why it’s so important to have regular eye check-ups, as early detection is key to preventing permanent vision loss.
Symptoms of glaucoma
One of the most concerning aspects of glaucoma is that it can develop without any noticeable symptoms. Many patients only become aware of the condition when it has already caused significant damage to their sight. This is why glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight.”
However, as glaucoma progresses, you may notice certain symptoms, including:
- Blurred vision
- Patchy blind spots in your peripheral (side) or central vision
- Eye pain or redness
- Seeing halos around lights
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical advice immediately.
Who is at risk?
Glaucoma can affect anyone, but certain factors can increase your risk:
- Age: The risk of glaucoma increases as you get older, particularly after age 60.
- Family history: If someone in your family has glaucoma, your chances of developing it are higher.
- Ethnicity: People of African, Caribbean, or Asian descent are more likely to develop glaucoma.
- Medical conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or certain eye conditions can increase your risk.
Because glaucoma can develop without symptoms, it’s vital to see an optician regularly for routine eye exams. Most opticians recommend having your eyes checked every two years, but if you’re at higher risk, you may need more frequent appointments.
How is glaucoma diagnosed?
During a routine eye exam, your optician will perform a series of tests to check for glaucoma. Two common tests include:
- Air puff test: This quick and simple test measures the pressure inside your eye by blowing a small puff of air onto its surface.
- Visual field test: This test checks for gaps in your peripheral vision, which can be an early sign of glaucoma.
If your optician suspects glaucoma, you may be referred to an ophthalmologist for further tests. These may include detailed scans of the optic nerve and additional pressure measurements.
Treatment options
While glaucoma cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively to prevent further vision loss. Treatment typically aims to reduce the pressure inside the eye and prevent damage to the optic nerve.
There are three main treatment options:
- Eye drops: These are often the first line of treatment for glaucoma. The drops work by reducing the pressure in the eye and are usually taken once or twice a day.
- Laser treatment: If eye drops aren’t enough, laser treatment may be recommended. This non-invasive procedure is usually performed in a clinic and helps to improve drainage from the eye, reducing pressure.
- Surgery: In more advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to create a new drainage channel for the fluid inside the eye. However, only around 10% of glaucoma patients will require surgery, as most cases can be managed with drops or laser treatment.
Living with glaucoma
If you’ve been diagnosed with glaucoma, the most important thing you can do is stay on top of your treatment and attend regular check-ups. When caught early, glaucoma can usually be managed well, and many people with the condition continue to lead full, active lives. Your ophthalmologist will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that suits your needs, whether that involves medication, laser treatment, or in some cases, surgery.
Final thoughts
Glaucoma may be a silent thief, but with regular eye exams and the right treatment, it doesn’t have to rob you of your sight. The best way to protect your vision is by having routine check-ups with your optician and staying informed about your eye health. If you’re concerned about glaucoma, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice—early detection can make all the difference.
Mr Vincent Dubois is a highly skilled eye surgeon specialising in cataract surgery, based in the Northwest of the UK. With extensive experience in both surgical techniques and patient care, Mr Dubois is dedicated to improving vision and enhancing the quality of life for his patients. He is known for his expertise in managing complex cases and his commitment to providing personalised, compassionate care.
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