Glaucoma is the name for a group of eye conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. This is usually due to excess fluid in the eye causing pressure to build up. The damage is irreversible and can lead to loss of vision if it’s not diagnosed and treated in the early stages.

Symptoms of glaucoma

One of the big dangers of glaucoma is that there are often no obvious symptoms in the early stages. The condition can develop slowly over years and affects the peripheral vision first which is why it often goes unnoticed.

Noticeable symptoms in later stages can include patchy blind spots in your side vision, blurred vision and rainbow-coloured halos around lights.

In rare cases, glaucoma can come on suddenly, causing eye pain, nausea, headache, red eyes, blurred vision and rings around lights. If this happens, we advise going to your nearest accident and emergency hospital.

Who is affected by glaucoma?

You can develop glaucoma at any age, but it is more common in older people and is one of the leading causes of blindness in those aged over 60. People of African, Caribbean or Asian origin are at higher risk, as are those with a family history of glaucoma. Your risk is also increased if you have diabetes, or are long or short-sighted.

Treatment and management

Any damage caused before diagnosis can’t be reversed, but treatment can prevent your eyesight from getting any worse. Treatment will depend on what type of glaucoma you have. For some people, eyedrops are enough to reduce the pressure in their eyes, but others may need surgery to help with fluid drainage.

In some cases, glaucoma can be treated under the Community Urgent Eyecare Service (CUES). This will enable you to get an NHS appointment urgently if you are experiencing new and acute issues with your eyes.

The importance of regular eye exams

Glaucoma is just one reason why it’s important to have regular eye exams. If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, or if a close family member has it, you will be eligible for free NHS eye tests. We usually advise adults to have eye exams every 2 years but the optometrist may advise more frequent tests if you are at risk of glaucoma.

If you have any concerns or it’s been more than 2 years since your last eye exam, contact us or request an appointment online today.