The Spectator

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is the name given to a group of eye conditions in which the optic nerve is damaged where it leaves the eye. This damage causes the loss of peripheral vision meaning it can go undetected for a long period of time.

Types of Glaucoma:

• Chronic Glaucoma

Chronic Glaucoma is the most common type, the pressure of your eye rises extremely slowly. This doesn’t create any pain, so you won’t know there is a problem, however, your vision gradually becomes impaired.

• Acute Glaucoma

This occurs when there is a sudden blockage to the flow of aqueous fluid to your eye. This can be fairly painful and can lead to permanent damage to your vision if it is not treated properly.

• Secondary Glaucoma

Secondary Glaucoma occurs because of an increase in pressure in your eye from another condition in your eye.

• Developmental Glaucoma

A rare but sometimes serious condition which occurs in babies and is caused by a deformity in the eye.

In the United Kingdom around 2 in 100 people aged 40+ can be affected by some form of Glaucoma. Your chances of having Glaucoma are increased with factors such as your age, with around 5% of people aged over 65 having the condition. Those with a family history of Glaucoma are 10 times more likely to develop it, and people with a high degree of short sightedness are more prone to developing Glaucoma.

If detected early enough then glaucoma can usually be treated and in most cases eye drops will be prescribed to reduce pressure.

For any questions about glaucoma please visit your local Eye Place, give us a call or visit our website.