Glaucoma: The Silent Sight Snatcher

4 November 2023

Common Eye Conditions

Introduction

Glaucoma is a condition that leads to blindness over time, if left untreated. It is detected by regular eye tests and monitoring from local Opticians. An OCT Scan is also helpful in early detection and prevention. Glaucoma can also be slowed down and your vision can be maintained for longer, if it’s detected early.

Glaucoma, often dubbed as the “silent thief of sight,” is a prevailing eye condition that chiefly targets the optic nerve, an indispensable component for vision.

In the UK, a staggering number of over 700,000 individuals are diagnosed with glaucoma. However there are a large number of undiagnosed cases also due to the absence of early symptoms. At Armitage Opticians in Heckmondwike, our focus is always on early detection and long term proactive eye health.

Causes and Risk Factors

Glaucoma is primarily caused due to a build-up of pressure in the eye when the fluid known as aqueous humor, either slows down in it’s drainage or is produced in greater volume. The risk factors include advancing age, a family history of glaucoma, Ethnicity, and co-existing eye conditions like myopia.

Symptoms

Glaucoma is a crafty intruder, often manifesting no noticeable symptoms in its early stages. There are different types of glaucoma and in this particular explanation we are talking mainly about Primary Open Angle Glaucoma.

Diagnosis

The adage, a stitch in time saves nine, rings true for glaucoma. Early detection through comprehensive eye exams at Armitage Opticians is a cornerstone in diagnosing and slowing down glaucoma. Our eye tests transcend the ordinary; they embody advanced screening with the Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) which executes eight meticulous scans on the eye for glaucoma, setting a new benchmark for opticians in Heckmondwike and beyond.

Types

Glaucoma isn’t monolithic; it unfurls in various guises including Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG), Angle-Closure Glaucoma (ACG), and Normal-Tension Glaucoma (NTG), each bearing different characteristics and treatment roadmaps.

Complications

If left unchecked, glaucoma can gallop towards blindness, securing a spot among the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide.

Treatment Options

The treatment of glaucoma aims at reducing the pressure in your eye and may span a range of options including eye drops, laser treatment, or surgery. At Armitage Opticians, our approach is unique. We equip you with the requisite advice, and our optometrists, honed with cutting-edge processes, stand at the forefront of detecting and managing glaucoma. Our years of experience in managing glaucoma and ensuring early detection for our patients means we’re true Expert Opticians.

What Can I Do to Prevent Glaucoma?

Regular eye exams are a robust strategy for early detection and management of glaucoma. There is nothing you can do to prevent Glaucoma, which is why early detection is vital to keep Glaucoma from damaging your vision.

Support and Resources

Numerous organisations extend a hand of support and resources for individuals with glaucoma. Engaging with these communities and ensuring regular check-ups at Armitage Opticians are important for you in detecting and managing Glaucoma

Conclusion

Glaucoma, a silent assailant on your vision, can be held at bay with early detection and a tailor-made management plan. We invite you to book an eye exam with us, where our professional and welcoming opticians are primed to guide you through your eye care journey

References

Glaucoma doesn’t ring loud alarms, but we at Armitage Opticians have the acumen to catch it in its tracks. Early detection is your loyal comrade in preserving your sight. Book your eye exam at Armitage Opticians today and stride forth on a path illuminated with knowledge and expert care.

Also Asked

What are the early signs of glaucoma?

Glaucoma often masquerades in silence in its early stage, but subtle signs might include mild headaches or eye pain.

How can glaucoma be prevented?

While glaucoma prevention isn’t foolproof, regular eye exams, a healthy lifestyle, and early management of eye conditions can act as sturdy barriers.

Are there any new treatments for glaucoma?

Glaucoma treatment is ever-evolving with new medications and surgical techniques surfacing. Regular consultations with our opticians can keep you abreast of these advancements.