Eye Care Article

What is GLAUCOMA and How Can We Prevent It?

Eye & Glasses Optometrist collaborates with International Glaucoma Association to raise awareness of glaucoma and eliminate glaucoma blindness by alerting people to have regular eye examination.

Glaucoma, often described as the “silent thief of sight” due to its gradual onset, causes damage to the optic nerve. The three most common types of glaucoma are as follows:

  1. Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma

About 50% of patients do not know they have it. It gradually and painlessly reduces peripheral vision. By the time it is noticed, permanent damage has already occurred. If eye pressure remains high, the destruction can progress until tunnel vision develops, and only objects that are straight ahead can be seen.

  1. Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma

It produces sudden symptoms such as eye pain, headaches, halos, red eyes, nausea and vomiting. If these symptoms persist, please visit an eye care practitioner immediately or visit the emergency room to prevent permanent vision loss.

  1. Normal-Tension Glaucoma

This open-angle type of glaucoma can cause visual field loss due to optic nerve damage. But in normal-tension glaucoma, the eye pressure remains in normal range. Pain is unlikely and permanent damage to the optic nerve may not be noticed until symptoms such as tunnel vision occur.

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Glaucoma is currently the leading cause of blindness worldwide, affecting approximately 64 million people globally. This number is projected to rise to 76 million, making it vital for people to recognise the importance of regular eye examinations.

No matter the treatment, early diagnosis is the best way to prevent vision loss from glaucoma.

Early Detection Is Key

Glaucoma often has no obvious symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. A visit to the optometrist can quickly identify your risk, and if diagnosed, glaucoma can be managed with treatment. While lost vision cannot be recovered, useful sight can be preserved with regular care.

Our Advanced Eye Examination goes beyond a basic check up to assess your eye health and detect hidden risk factors for glaucoma. Protect your vision today and book your comprehensive assessment.