Introduction

World Glaucoma Week

World Glaucoma Week

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This week is World Glaucoma Week

Glaucoma is a common eye condition where the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain, becomes damaged.

It's usually caused by fluid building up in the front part of the eye, which increases pressure inside the eye.

Glaucoma can lead to loss of vision if it's not diagnosed and treated early.

It can affect people of all ages, but is most common in adults in their 70s and 80s.

one of the best ways to detect glaucoma is during a routine eye test – that’s why it’s so important to have regular eye tests.

How can glaucoma affect my sight?

Most types of glaucoma have no symptoms, so a regular eye test is the only way to know you have the condition. You may not notice any difference in your vision because glaucoma affects your peripheral vision (also known as your side vision) first. As your peripheral vision is not as sensitive as your central vision, it’s difficult to notice any early changes to your vision – but your sight is being damaged.

Because you may not notice a problem until your glaucoma is more advanced, it’s important to have regular eye tests as this is the only way to know if you have it. The earlier your glaucoma is picked up and treated, the more of your sight can be protected.