Glaucoma: What You Need to Know
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye condition that damages the optic nerve – which connects the eye to the brain. If not treated, it can lead to vision loss or blindness.
What Causes It?
Glaucoma is often caused by high pressure inside the eye. This pressure can build up when the eye’s drainage system doesn’t work properly.
Who Can Get Glaucoma?
Anyone can get glaucoma, but some people have a higher risk, including:
- People over 40
- Those with a family history of glaucoma
- People with diabetes
- People of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent
- People with high eye pressure
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Glaucoma often has no early symptoms. As it gets worse, people may notice:
- Blurred vision
- Loss of side (peripheral) vision
- Seeing halos around lights
- Eye pain or redness (in some types of glaucoma)
How is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
An eye doctor can check for glaucoma with:
- An eye pressure test
- A look at the optic nerve
- A visual field test to check for vision loss
Treatment for Glaucoma
There is no cure, but treatment can slow down vision loss. Treatments include:
- Eye drops – Lower eye pressure
- Laser treatment – Helps drain fluid from the eye
- Surgery – Creates a new drainage pathway if needed
How to Protect Your Vision
- Get regular eye tests (every 1-2 years, or as advised by your doctor)
- Follow your doctor’s advice if you have glaucoma
- Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes
Need More Information?
Did you know we have Eye Clinic Liaison Officer (ECLO) in Leeds and Milton Keynes? Contact them for more information or to learn about what support you can receive.
Alternatively, you can head over to the NHS website for more information: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/glaucoma/
Still need more information? Check out Scrivens guide to Glaucoma for a clear explanation of glaucoma, its symptoms, and the treatments available.