Glaucoma, the Sneak Thief of SightDo you have Glaucoma? Around 300,000 Australians currently suffer from glaucoma, affecting 1 in 10 people over the age of eighty. Unfortunately many people do not even know they have it.

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What is Glaucoma? Glaucoma is an eye disease in which the optic nerve at the back of the eye is slowly destroyed. In most people the damage is caused by a buildup of pressure inside the eye. In other patients damage can be caused by poor blood supply to the nerve or a weakness in the structure of the nerve causing sight to be gradually lost.

What are the warning signs?There are no warning signs and usually no pain associated with glaucoma. It is possible to have Glaucoma and not be aware that something is wrong until vision loss occurs, and by then it can be too late. Peripheral vision is often affected first and can deteriorate notably. Once the vision is lost it cannot be repaired. Fortunately, further damage can be prevented if it is caught early.

How is Glaucoma detected?Regular eye examinations are vital to detect Glaucoma in its early stages and start treatment. Eye pressure is routinely measured by an Optometrist. Sometimes further assessments including visual field tests to check peripheral vision and optic nerve analysis are necessary. There is no way of checking for glaucoma yourself.

Who is at risk of glaucoma?Everyone is potentially in danger of developing glaucoma. At present, 50% of the people with glaucoma are undiagnosed. Glaucoma is more common as people age. Other risk factors for developing glaucoma include a family history of the condition, diabetes, low blood pressure, a previous eye injury, a history of migraines and side effect with some medications, such as prolonged use of steroids.

What is the treatment?Once glaucoma is detected treatment can usually prevent or at least slow down further loss of sight. The most common type of treatment for Open-angle Glaucoma is topical eye drops, which reduce the pressure inside the eye. Regular eye examinations from age 35 years are vital to detect glaucoma.