Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye condition caused by a build-up of fluid in the eye.
This can be due to blockage in the drainage system in the eye or fluid over production. This then leads to high eye pressure which causes changes to the optic nerve. There are several reasons why this occurs.(The optic nerve is located on the retina~at the back of the eye).

There are 2 types of Glaucoma:

Chronic~ progressive which is slowly developing.
Acute~ sudden which occurs quickly and is painful.

The chronic condition is the most common and is usually known as primary open angle glaucoma.
There are cases where glaucoma is caused by another eye condition. This is known as secondary open angle glaucoma.

With Primary Open Angle Glaucoma, Quite Often There Are No Symptoms, Some May Experience:

~brow ache
~headaches 
~random eye ache 
 

Regular eye examination will ensure early detection.

Click here to read about ‘The Eye Exam’.

If your Optometrist notices any signs, you will be referred to see an Opthalmologist (Medical eye doctor) to investigate further and determine if you have the condition.

If Glaucoma is diagnosed, you will be treated with eye drops to control the fluid flow in the eye and to maintain eye pressure to normal levels.

In 2022, the guidelines on the treatment for Glaucoma changed and now the first line of treatment is Selective laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT).

SLT is carried out by an Opthalmologist who will place a special lens in front of the eye to see the drainage area of the eye and one hundred shots of laser is placed.

This treatment has proven to regulate eye pressure without the need for eye drops. After a few years eye drops may need to be prescribed.

If you have any questions, please get in touch.