Understanding Glaucoma: Your Essential Guide to Eye Health
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on glaucoma and eye health. As home-visiting opticians serving Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, and Northwest London, we’re marking World Glaucoma Week by sharing vital information about this common condition.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which connects your eye to your brain. It’s the second leading cause of blindness worldwide, affecting an estimated 78 million individuals. Often linked to increased eye pressure, glaucoma can also occur with normal pressure levels.
Why Early Detection Matters
Glaucoma is known as the “silent thief of sight” because early symptoms are rare. However, early detection through regular eye tests can prevent vision loss. When caught early, treatment is highly effective in slowing or halting the progression of the disease.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Several factors can increase your risk of developing glaucoma:
- Age: The risk increases significantly after age 40.
- Family History: Having a close relative with glaucoma raises your risk.
- Ethnicity: African-Caribbean or Asian origin can increase susceptibility to certain types.
- Health Factors: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high myopia may contribute to increased risk.
Warning Signs to Watch
Most people don’t notice early symptoms, which is why regular testing is crucial. However, later signs may include:
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision
- Rainbow-coloured rings around bright lights
- Sudden eye pain (in acute cases)
- Blurred vision
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting (in acute cases)
Diagnosis and Treatment
Glaucoma is usually diagnosed during routine eye tests. Diagnostic procedures include:
- Eye pressure test (tonometry)
- Visual field test
- Optic nerve examination
- Gonioscopy (to check the eye’s drainage angle)
Treatment options have expanded in recent years and may include:
- Eye drops: The first-line treatment, often using prostaglandin analogs to reduce eye pressure.
- Laser therapy: Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is now recommended as a first-line treatment option, potentially replacing or supplementing eye drops.
- Surgery: Various surgical options are available, including traditional surgeries like trabeculectomy and minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS).
- New treatments: The FDA recently approved a bimatoprost implant (Durysta®) that dissolves and works for several months, offering an alternative to daily eye drops.
Professional Eye Care at Home
At Opticall Eyecare, we bring comprehensive eye testing to your doorstep using modern, portable equipment. Our service includes:
- Full eye health checks
- Pressure testing
- Visual field assessment
- Clear explanation of results
- NHS-funded care for eligible patients
Recommended Testing Schedule
- Under 65: Every 1-2 years
- Over 65: Annually
- Higher risk groups: As advised by your optician
Protecting Your Eyes Daily
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule for screen users: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Ensure good lighting for detailed tasks
- Wear sunglasses in bright conditions
- Stay hydrated
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in leafy greens, fish with omega-3 fatty acids, and colourful fruits and vegetables
Take Action: Book Your Test Today
Don’t wait for symptoms – regular eye tests are your best defence against glaucoma. Contact us today to arrange your home eye test or complete the form and we’ll call you back: www.opticalleyecare.co.uk/request-an-eye-test.
Our qualified opticians are registered with the General Optical Council, providing the same high standards as high street practices, with the convenience of home visits.Remember, our service is NHS-funded for those who cannot visit a high street optician unaccompanied due to physical or mental illness or disability.By staying informed and getting regular eye exams, we can work together towards reducing the impact of glaucoma on vision and quality of life. Your eye health is our priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.