Eye Health

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition of the optic nerve which if untreated can lead to progressive loss of peripheral vision.  In severe cases it can cause blindness, but fortunately treatment can preserve remaining vision in nearly everyone with glaucoma.  The key thing in glaucoma is early diagnosis so that treatment can be more effective. 

Glaucoma is one of the reasons everyone should have a regular eye examination, especially over the age of 45.  Early glaucoma will often give no symptoms –  Australian studies have shown that about 50% of people with early glaucoma are unaware of their conditon. 

At an eye examination, glaucoma can be detected through a combination of tests.  Many people with glaucoma have raised fluid pressure in their eyes.  IOP (Intra-ocular pressure) can be measured by contact, and non-contact ('the puff of air test') methods.  Secondly, the health of the optic nerve is examined by looking inside the eyes with a microscope, with photos often taken to provide a visual record of how the nerve looks.  Other areas inside the eye can also change their appearance in some forms of glaucoma. If there is a suspicion of glaucoma, these initial tests get followed up with a quality-check of the peripheral vision - called a 'visual field test'.  In glaucoma it is the peripheral vision that is affected first.  

When there is a reasonable suspicion that glaucoma is affecting the vision, we refer a person for further asssessment and treatment by an ophthalmologist.  Often treatment just involves drops once or twice a day, although sometimes glaucoma can require laser treatment or surgery.    

Everyone should have their eyes tested regularly for glaucoma, especially as they get older, or if there is a family history of the condition.

For those with advanced glaucoma affecting their vision, we can help out with advice and visual aids.   

Help and Support

Glaucoma Australia support groups
Living with glaucoma - well presented

Further information

British Medical Journal summaries of glaucoma diagnosis and treatment

Eye Health Facts