Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a common eye condition that affects the optic nerve, the part of your eye that sends visual information to your brain. It is often linked to changes in pressure inside the eye. For many people, this pressure is higher than normal, but glaucoma can also occur when eye pressure is within the typical range. In these cases the optic nerve is simply more sensitive and becomes damaged more easily. Because glaucoma can appear in different forms and often develops slowly, many people don’t realise they have it until their vision is affected. If left untreated it can lead to permanent vision loss, usually starting with your side (peripheral) vision.

Regular eye tests are the best way to detect glaucoma early. Most people won’t notice symptoms at first, so checking your eye health routinely is vital for protecting your sight.

What causes glaucoma?

Glaucoma usually develops when fluid inside the eye doesn’t drain away as it should. When this happens, pressure can build up and damage the optic nerve over time.

Your risk of developing glaucoma is higher if you:

• Are over 60
• Are of African, Caribbean or Asian descent
• Have a family history of glaucoma
• Have other health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure

Regular eye exams are essential for spotting and managing eye diseases, especially if you’re at higher risk. These check-ups can pick up conditions like glaucoma and other eye conditions long before you notice any symptoms yourself. Finding problems early means treatment can begin sooner, helping to protect your vision and overall eye health.

Recognise the symptoms of glaucoma

In most cases glaucoma develops slowly and without obvious symptoms. This is why it is often called the “silent thief of sight.” The condition often affects your peripheral vision first, making it harder to notice until significant damage has occurred.

Symptoms may include:

• Blurred or patchy vision
• Rainbow-like circles around lights
• Gradual loss of side vision

A rare type, called acute angle-closure glaucoma, appears suddenly. Symptoms can include:

• Severe eye pain
• Red eyes
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headaches
• Sudden blurred vision

This is an eye care emergency, which means you need help straight away. If you notice these symptoms, call your local branch during opening hours so we can assist you urgently. If we’re closed, NHS 111 can offer advice and guide you on what to do next.

Make proactive decisions about your eye care and book your next eye examination today with our professional optometrists.

Types of Glaucoma

There are several forms of glaucoma, each affecting the eye in different ways:

• Primary Open Angle Glaucoma: The most common type. It develops slowly as the eye’s drainage channels become blocked over time. It can occur with high pressure or with normal-tension glaucoma, where pressure is not raised but the optic nerve is still damaged.
• Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma: A sudden blockage of the eye’s drainage system, causing a rapid rise in pressure. This is a medical emergency and requires urgent treatment.
• Secondary Glaucoma: Caused by another eye problem such as uveitis (inflammation inside the eye), eye injury, or the use of steroid medication. It may develop gradually or suddenly.
• Childhood Glaucoma: A rare form that appears at birth or during childhood. It is usually caused by the eye not developing normally. Signs can include enlarged eyes, sensitivity to light, and excessive tearing.

How glaucoma is diagnosed

Glaucoma is often detected during a routine eye test, even when you have no symptoms. Your optometrist may use a combination of tests, including:

• Eye pressure test (Tonometry): Measures the pressure inside your eye.
  
• Visual field test: Checks your side vision for any areas of vision loss.
  
• Optic nerve assessment: Looks for early signs of nerve damage. This often includes imaging techniques such as an OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scan, a modern scan that can detect glaucoma several years earlier than traditional methods. It is highly recommended for people at increased risk.
  
• Gonioscopy: A specialist test, usually carried out in a hospital, to check how well fluid drains from the eye.
  
• Pupil dilation: Allows a clearer view of the optic nerve and retina.
  
• Corneal thickness measurement (Pachymetry): Measures how thick your cornea is, since this can affect eye pressure readings.
  
• Slit-lamp examination: Uses a specialised microscope to look closely at the cornea, iris, and lens.
  
• Fundoscopy: Examines the back of the eye (retina) and the optic nerve.

If glaucoma is suspected, you may be referred to an ophthalmologist for further checks and treatment.

Because glaucoma often progresses without symptoms, eye tests every two years are essential. If you're at higher risk, such as having a family history of glaucoma, annual checks are recommended.

Book your routine eye examination today.

Treatment options

Although any vision already lost to glaucoma can’t be restored, early treatment can protect the sight you have. Depending on the type and stage of glaucoma, treatment may include prescription eye drops to reduce eye pressure, laser treatment to improve fluid drainage, or surgery for more advanced or complex cases.

Ongoing monitoring and regular follow-up appointments essential to ensure your treatment continues to work effectively and can be adjusted if needed.

Preventing glaucoma

While it’s not always possible to prevent glaucoma, you can reduce your risk by keeping your eyes healthy and managing any medical conditions. This includes staying active, eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and protecting your eyes from injury.

Most importantly, make regular eye tests part of your routine. Early detection gives you the best chance of preserving your vision.

Takeaway

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition, but with early diagnosis and the right care it can be managed effectively. Regular eye tests, knowing your risk factors and paying attention to changes in your vision all play a vital role in protecting your eyesight.

At Leightons, our expert optometrists use advanced technology, including OCT scans, to detect glaucoma at the earliest possible stage. Whether you’re due a routine eye test or need support with an existing diagnosis, we’re here to help you safeguard your vision.

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