In glaucoma, loss of vision is caused by damage to the optic nerve. The commonest cause is raised pressure in the eyeball, although this is not always present. In most cases the condition is painless, damage to vision is very gradual, and first to be lost is the peripheral vision.
For all these reasons sufferers are often unaware of their slowly developing blindness until it has reached an advanced stage and significant irreversible damage has already been done.Regular eye checks at your eye doctor, especially over the age of 40 can detect glaucoma at an early age.
The examination includes measurement of the intraocular pressure, examination of the optic nerve, and sometimes a computerized visual field test will be ordered.
It is estimated that at least 50% of those with glaucoma are unaware of their condition. It is especially important to be examined if you are a relative of a glaucoma sufferer, diabetic or are highly myopic (nearsighted).
When caught early, glaucoma damage can usually be prevented with eye drops, laser and surgery as necessary.
