Glaucoma

Glaucoma, a highly complex eye condition, presents a formidable challenge that requires our attention. Our informative guide provides valuable insights into the intricate anatomy of the eye, explaining the concept of intraocular pressure and its close association with glaucoma diagnosis. Within the realm of glaucoma, a group of eye disorders, there is a common thread: an increase in the pressure inside the eye.

This elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) often causes significant harm to the delicate optic nerve, leading to irreversible damage and the gradual loss of peripheral vision. Each type of glaucoma necessitates tailored treatment approaches. The danger lies in the subtle nature of this condition, as significant damage can occur without any accompanying pain or noticeable changes in vision.

Unfortunately, individuals often become aware of the problem only after a significant amount of peripheral vision has been irreversibly lost. The diagnosis of glaucoma is anything but straightforward, as it requires a range of diverse tests to uncover the underlying cause and mechanism of optic nerve impairment. In many cases, glaucoma presents alongside increased pressure within the eye.

To truly understand the impact of glaucoma on our well-being, it is crucial to delve into the complexities of ocular structure and grasp the paramount importance of maintaining normal eye pressure. Our esteemed team of ophthalmologists and optometrists at the Medical Eye Clinic specialises in providing comprehensive management for glaucoma. We ensure that each patient receives the highest level of care and expertise, prioritising their well-being.  

Early detection of this eye condition and subsequent treatment are therefore vital if sight loss is to be avoided.  

Who is at Risk?

1 in 200 People in The UK are at Risk of Glaucoma. 

• If you have a direct relative who has glaucoma, then your risk of having the disease is increased by 10%.  
• If your Intra Ocular Pressure (IOP) is greater than 22 mmHg, you are more likely to have glaucoma. IOP should be measured during a routine eye examination by your optometrist.  
• The risk of glaucoma varies between ethnic groups. Black and Asian populations have a higher incidence of glaucoma compared to Caucasians.  
• As you get older, the risk of suffering from glaucoma increases.  
• Evidence shows that patients who have suffered certain eye complications, such as central retinal vein occlusion, retinal detachment, Fuch’s endothelial dystrophy, and retinitis pigmentosa, have a higher incidence of glaucoma.  

How do I Know if I Have Glaucoma?

In its early stages, glaucoma may not present any noticeable symptoms, making it difficult to detect. Initially, it primarily affects peripheral vision, leaving central vision intact, which is crucial for activities such as reading, recognising faces, and watching television. Consequently, this initial impact often goes unnoticed.

The most reliable way to determine if one is affected by glaucoma is through regular eye health check-ups with an optician or optometrist. These professionals will conduct painless tests, including measuring the intraocular pressure, to assess the need for further examination by an ophthalmologist. Unfortunately, glaucoma is a chronic disease that persists throughout one’s life and currently lacks a cure.

Once vision is lost as a result of glaucoma, it cannot be restored. However, there is some encouraging news, as effective medical treatments can slow down or even halt the progression of damage caused by the disease. In the past, glaucoma was often associated with inevitable blindness. However, significant advancements in diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment have dramatically changed the prospects for those affected. In the United Kingdom, the vast majority of individuals with glaucoma can now maintain useful vision for their entire lives.  

Detection 

It is strongly recommended, particularly for individuals aged 40 and above, to undergo regular eye check-ups. Remember, it is always preferable to prevent rather than cure! Glaucoma, a common eye condition, presents a grave danger to our vision if left unattended. Over time, this condition progressively worsens and can ultimately lead to a loss of sight. Thus, timely identification becomes paramount. 

At the Medical Eye Clinic, our experienced opticians conduct detailed examinations to ensure the well-being of your optic nerve, situated at the back of the eye. They also measure your intraocular pressure and perform a peripheral vision test to assess your entire visual field. The Medical Eye Clinic also uses OCT, a leading scan to further detect Glaucoma. However, it is important to note that relying solely on these tests has its limitations, as they can only diagnose a problem once it becomes evident, such as a defect in your visual field.

On the other hand, The Medical Eye Clinic distinguishes itself from other optical practices by utilising a state-of-the-art technique known as Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT). This cutting-edge eye scan enables us to analyse the condition of the optic nerve at an early stage, allowing us to detect this potentially blinding disease before it progresses significantly. OCT utilises light to visualise the different layers of the eye and produces a non-invasive, straightforward, and painless scan. The information gathered from OCT is invaluable and can aid in predicting the likelihood of future glaucoma complications for numerous patients.