Glaucoma – prevention is better than cure.

So what is glaucoma and what does it mean for your eyes? 
The Glaucoma’s are a group of eye conditions which can affect your vision and if left untreated can lead to permanent loss of vision. The most common type of glaucoma is primary open angle glaucoma.


Primary open angle glaucoma is a slow developing form of the condition, which occurs when fluid doesn’t drain properly from the eye causing a build up of pressure, which damages the optic nerve. The good news is that by having regular eye examinations this condition can be detected in its early stages, before the build up of pressure begins to effect sight. The bad news is that the symptoms are slow to revel themselves and it can take time for you to realise that there is a problem.


Over 480,000 people in England have been diagnosed with primary open angle glaucoma, although the International Glaucoma Association estimate it as being significantly higher. Other types of glaucoma, such as secondary glaucoma which can occur after an eye injury, are much less common., however all can cause blindness if left untreated.

How do you prevent glaucoma?
Unfortunately you cannot take actions to prevent glaucoma, however regular eye examinations can detect if you are developing the condition and treat it from an early stage. Early diagnosis is essential  to successfully treat and manage the condition, preventing it from worsening. As the effects are non-reversible, leaving it too late to begin treatment will cause irreparable damage. 


If you are diagnosed with the condition it can be treated to prevent it from worsening. The most common treatment is eye drops, although other treatments including beta-blockers and surgery can be used. 


The simplest way to prevent glaucoma from worsening is to have regular eye examinations with a fully qualified optometrist. The NHS Choices website explains “Attending regular optician appointments will help to ensure that any signs of glaucoma can be detected early and allow treatment to begin.” You should also inform your Optometrist if you have a family history of glaucoma or related illnesses.


What next?
If you haven’t been for an eye examination within the past 2 years the next step should be to book one as soon as you conveniently can. Tesco Opticians eye examinations are free, enabling everyone to look after their eyes, regardless of their financial situation. Just call us on 0845 601 3479 to arrange an appointment.


If you are concerned that you may have glaucoma, or that someone in your family has, you can always book an early appointment rather than waiting until your next visit. 


For any other queries there are a lot of great support websites out there. Try www.glaucoma-association.com or www.nhs.uk for more information about the condition, diagnosis and treatment.