If you\’re unfamiliar with glaucoma, now is the time to learn. Many people misunderstand this serious eye disease and underestimate its impact. Glaucoma can lead to vision loss, but early detection and treatment are key to preventing it. A simple Visual Field Test can identify glaucoma early, allowing us to take action before permanent damage occurs.
Glaucoma is a common eye disease that is often genetic. It is caused by high intraocular pressure in the eye\’s drainage system.
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- 1. Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness
- 2. There is no cure (yet) for glaucoma
- 3. Everyone is at risk for glaucoma
- 4. There may be no symptoms to warn you
Luke Arundel, Chief Clinical Officer for Optometry Australia says that glaucoma is often nicknamed the ‘silent thief of sight’ because peripheral vision loss occurs at such a gradual pace, it often goes unnoticed until it’s too late.
“Glaucoma cannot be self-detected. In most cases there are no symptoms or early warning signs to let you know there is something wrong with your eyes. The only way to check if you have glaucoma is to have an eye exam including an optic nerve check which is simple and completely pain-free.”
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Are you at risk of Glaucoma? Check the following risk factors:
- Have a family history of glaucoma
- Have high eye pressure
- Are aged over 50
- Are of African or Asian descent
- Have diabetes
- Are short or long sighted
- Have been on a prolonged course of cortisone (steroid) medication
- Experience migraines
- Have had an eye operation or eye injury
- Have a history of high or low blood pressure
Do you have any of the symptoms?
The most common form of glaucoma starts with the loss of side vision (peripheral vision). There is no pain or discomfort associated with it. The lack of symptoms makes early detection difficult. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:
- Painless blurred vision
- Loss of peripheral vision
- Difficulty adjusting to low light
If you have any of the Glaucoma symptoms or identify with any of the risk factors, we recommend that you get an eye test to ensure that your eyes are healthy. Remember, prevention is the best cure! See an optometrist today.
Book an appointment – https://eyephilosophy.com.au/contact-us/