In this article, we’ll delve into some of the most prevalent eye issues people face today, providing essential information for readers to understand, prevent, and manage these conditions. So, let’s embark on a journey to uncover the world of common eye problems.
Myopia (Nearsightedness)
What is Myopia?
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a common eye condition that affects how well a person can see distant objects. Individuals with myopia can see nearby objects clearly, but distant objects appear blurry. This condition occurs when the eyeball is longer than normal or the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) is too curved. As a result, light entering the eye is focused in front of the retina instead of directly on it.
What are the symptoms of myopia?
Blurred Distant Vision: Individuals with myopia often experience blurred vision when trying to see objects in the distance, such as road signs or distant landmarks.
Squinting: Squinting is a common natural response to myopia. It temporarily changes the shape of the eye’s lens, helping to focus light on the retina and improve vision.
Eye Strain: Myopia can lead to eye strain, especially when trying to see distant objects for an extended period. This can result in discomfort, headaches, or tired eyes.
Difficulty Seeing the Board or Screen: Myopic individuals may have trouble seeing what’s displayed on a chalkboard, whiteboard, or screen in a classroom or office, particularly if they are sitting at a distance.
Difficulty Recognizing Faces from a Distance: Recognizing people or details from a distance can be challenging for individuals with myopia.
Sensitivity to Light (Photophobia): Some myopic individuals may experience increased sensitivity to bright lights or glare, which can be uncomfortable.
Difficulty Driving: Myopia can make it challenging to read road signs or see objects far ahead while driving, especially at night.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can vary in severity depending on the degree of myopia. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s advisable to consult an eye care professional for a comprehensive eye examination. They can diagnose myopia and recommend appropriate corrective measures, such as eyeglasses or contact lenses, to improve vision and alleviate these symptoms.
How do you treat myopia?
Treating myopia typically involves the use of corrective lenses or refractive surgery. The choice of treatment depends on the degree of myopia, individual preferences, and the guidance of an eye care professional. Here are the common methods for treating myopia:
Glasses: Glasses are a common and effective way to correct myopia. A prescription from an eye care professional will specify the lenses needed to correct your nearsightedness. Glasses provide clear vision by refracting light directly onto the retina, compensating for the eye’s focusing problem.
Contact Lenses: Contact lenses are an alternative to eyeglasses and can provide a more natural field of vision. They come in various types, including soft and rigid gas-permeable lenses. Contact lenses are fitted to your specific prescription and should be used and cared for according to the guidance of your eye care professional.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Ortho-K is a non-surgical approach to myopia management. Special rigid contact lenses are worn overnight, reshaping the cornea temporarily. During the day, you can see clearly without the need for glasses or lenses. This method is often used in children to slow the progression of myopia.
Refractive Surgery: In cases of moderate to high myopia, refractive surgery may be an option. Procedures like LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) reshape the cornea permanently to improve vision. These surgeries require a consultation with a refractive surgeon to determine candidacy and discuss potential risks and benefits.
Regular Eye Examinations: Regardless of the chosen treatment method, regular eye examinations are essential to monitor the progression of myopia, especially in children. Early intervention and treatment adjustments can help manage myopia effectively.
It’s crucial to work closely with an eye care professional to determine the most suitable treatment for your myopia. They will consider your specific prescription, age, lifestyle, and any other individual factors to provide the best course of action to correct and manage your nearsightedness.
Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
What is Hyperopia?
Hyperopia, commonly known as farsightedness, is an eye condition in which distant objects are seen more clearly than nearby objects. It occurs when light entering the eye is focused behind the retina instead of directly on it. This happens because the eyeball is typically too short or the cornea has too little curvature, resulting in light rays converging behind the retina.
What are the symptoms of hyperopia?
Some common symptoms of hyperopia include:
Blurred Near Vision: Farsighted individuals often experience difficulty seeing objects up close, such as when reading a book, working on a computer, or doing any close-up tasks.
Eyestrain: Straining the eyes to see up-close objects is a common symptom of hyperopia. This can lead to discomfort, headaches, or tired eyes, especially during tasks that require close visual focus.
Difficulty with Close Tasks: People with hyperopia may have trouble with activities that demand sharp near vision, like threading a needle or reading fine print.
Squinting: Squinting is a natural reaction to farsightedness. When individuals squint, they effectively reduce the amount of light entering the eye, which can improve their ability to see nearby objects more clearly.
Eye Fatigue: Hyperopia can lead to eye fatigue or strain, particularly if individuals spend extended periods doing close-up work without correction.
Asthenopia: Asthenopia is a term used to describe general eye discomfort, including symptoms like eye pain, burning, or a sensation of heaviness. These symptoms can be associated with hyperopia.
It’s important to note that the severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the degree of hyperopia. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s advisable to consult an eye care professional for a comprehensive eye examination.
How do you treat hyperopia?
The choice of treatment depends on the degree of hyperopia, individual preferences, and the guidance of an eye care professional. Here are the common methods for treating hyperopia:
Glasses: Glasses are a straightforward and effective way to correct hyperopia. A prescription from an eye care professional specifies the lenses needed to correct farsightedness. These lenses bend incoming light so that it focuses directly on the retina, improving near and distance vision.
Contact Lenses: Contact lenses provide an alternative to glasses and can offer a more natural field of vision. Soft contact lenses are commonly used to correct hyperopia, although rigid gas-permeable lenses are an option as well. Contact lenses are fitted to your specific prescription and should be used and cared for according to the guidance of your eye care professional.
Refractive Surgery: In cases of moderate to high hyperopia, refractive surgery may be an option. Procedures like LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) reshape the cornea to improve vision permanently. These surgeries require a consultation with a refractive surgeon to determine candidacy and discuss potential risks and benefits.
Reading Glasses: Some individuals with mild hyperopia may choose to use over-the-counter reading glasses for close-up tasks. Reading glasses are a simple and affordable solution for correcting mild farsightedness.
Bifocal or Progressive Lenses: These specialized eyeglasses or contact lenses have two or more prescription strengths in one lens. They can be used to correct both hyperopia and presbyopia (difficulty focusing on close objects due to age-related changes).
It’s essential to work closely with an eye care professional to determine the most suitable treatment for your hyperopia. They will consider your specific prescription, age, lifestyle, and any other individual factors to provide the best course of action to correct and manage your farsightedness.
Astigmatism
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a common refractive error of the eye that causes blurred or distorted vision. It occurs when the cornea (the clear, front surface of the eye) or the lens inside the eye has an irregular shape rather than being perfectly spherical. This irregular shape prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, leading to blurred or distorted images at all distances.
What are the symptoms of Astigmatism?
The symptoms of astigmatism may include:
Blurred Vision: Blurred vision is the most common symptom of astigmatism. Objects at various distances can appear fuzzy or out of focus. Both near and distant vision can be affected.
Distorted or Wavy Vision: Astigmatism can cause objects to appear distorted or slightly bent. Straight lines may appear curved, and details may not appear as they should.
Eyestrain: Trying to compensate for astigmatism by squinting or straining the eyes to see more clearly can lead to eyestrain. This may result in discomfort, tiredness, or headaches, especially after prolonged visual tasks.
Difficulty with Night Vision: Astigmatism can worsen night vision. Glare, halos around lights, or double vision in low-light conditions are common complaints.
Difficulty Reading or Using a Computer: People with astigmatism may find it challenging to read, work on a computer, or engage in tasks that require focusing on objects up close.
Frequent Changes in Eyeglass Prescription: If you notice that your eyeglass prescription changes frequently, it might be an indication of astigmatism. Regular eye examinations are important to monitor and adjust the prescription as needed.
It’s important to recognize these symptoms and seek professional eye care to diagnose and correct astigmatism.
How do you treat Astigmatism?
Here are the common methods for treating astigmatism:
Glasses: Glasses are a simple and effective way to correct astigmatism. A prescription from an eye care professional specifies the lenses needed to correct the irregular shape of the cornea or lens, allowing light to focus properly on the retina. Glasses can provide clear vision for both near and distant objects.
Contact Lenses: Contact lenses, particularly toric contact lenses, are designed to correct astigmatism. These lenses have different powers in different meridians to compensate for the uneven curvature of the cornea. Contact lenses provide a more natural field of vision and are suitable for people with an active lifestyle.
Refractive Surgery: Refractive surgery may be an option for some individuals with astigmatism, particularly when the astigmatism is significant and stable. Procedures like LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) or PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) can reshape the cornea, correcting astigmatism and reducing the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. Refractive surgery should be discussed with an eye care professional to determine candidacy and discuss potential risks and benefits.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Ortho-K is a non-surgical approach that uses specially designed rigid contact lenses to reshape the cornea temporarily while you sleep. During the day, you can see clearly without the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. Ortho-K is often used to correct astigmatism in children and may also slow the progression of myopia.
It’s essential to work closely with an eye care professional to determine the most suitable treatment for your astigmatism.
Presbyopia
What is Presbyopia?
Presbyopia is a common age-related vision condition that affects the eye’s ability to focus on objects up close. It typically becomes noticeable in one’s 40s and progresses with age. Presbyopia occurs as a result of changes in the eye’s crystalline lens and its surrounding muscles, which make it difficult for the lens to change shape effectively for near focusing.
What are the symptoms of presbyopia?
The primary symptom of presbyopia is difficulty seeing objects up close. Some common symptoms of presbyopia include:
Difficulty Reading Small Print: People with presbyopia often find it challenging to read small print, such as the text in books, newspapers, or on a mobile phone or tablet.
Needing More Light: Individuals with presbyopia may require brighter lighting when doing close-up tasks to improve their ability to see clearly.
Holding Objects at Arm’s Length: To see objects up close more clearly, individuals with presbyopia tend to hold them at arm’s length. This can be observed when reading a book or looking at a menu, for example.
Eyestrain: Straining the eyes when trying to focus on close objects can lead to discomfort and eyestrain. This may result in headaches or tired eyes, especially after prolonged reading or other near tasks.
Difficulty with Fine Tasks: Tasks that require precise near vision, such as threading a needle or working on detailed crafts, become more challenging for those with presbyopia.
Blurred Vision at Close Range: Blurred vision is a common symptom of presbyopia when trying to focus on objects up close. This blurriness can make it difficult to see text clearly.
Near Vision Improvement in Good Lighting: Some individuals may notice that their near vision improves when they have ample light, but the difficulty persists in dimly lit environments.
It’s important to recognize these symptoms and seek professional eye care to diagnose and correct presbyopia.
How do you treat presbyopia?
Here are the common methods for treating presbyopia:
Reading Glasses: Reading glasses are a simple and effective way to correct presbyopia. They are available over-the-counter (OTC) or by prescription and are specifically designed to provide clear vision for close-up tasks. Reading glasses are convenient and suitable for many people with presbyopia.
Multifocal Glasses: Multifocal Glasses, also known as progressive or bifocal lenses, have two or more prescription strengths in one lens. These lenses allow clear vision for both near and distant objects, eliminating the need to switch between different pairs of glasses.
Contact Lenses: Multifocal contact lenses are available for those who prefer not to wear glasses. These lenses have different prescription strengths for near and distant vision. They provide clear vision at various distances and are suitable for individuals with presbyopia.
Monovision Contact Lenses: Monovision contact lenses involve correcting one eye for near vision and the other for distance vision. While it may take some adjustment, many people find this a suitable solution for presbyopia.
Refractive Surgery: Refractive surgery procedures, such as monovision LASIK or PRK, can be considered for those who want a surgical solution to correct presbyopia. These procedures reshape the cornea to improve near and distant vision.
Corneal Inlays: Some individuals with presbyopia may consider corneal inlays, which are small implants placed in the cornea to improve near vision. This is a surgical option that can be discussed with an eye care professional.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, book an appointment to see our in-house opticians.
The choice of treatment depends on the individual’s vision needs, lifestyle, and the guidance of an eye care professional.
Remember, regular eye examinations are essential to monitor and manage these conditions effectively, and working closely with an eye care professional is crucial to determine the most suitable treatment for your specific needs. By taking care of our vision, we can continue to enjoy the wonders of the world around us.
Astigmatism is a common eye condition that affects many people. It occurs when the shape of the cornea or lens is irregular, causing distorted vision. Astigmatism can cause blurred or fuzzy vision at any distance, making it difficult to see clearly. However, the good news is that this condition is very treatable with the right tools and care.
What causes Astigmatism?
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) or the lens inside the eye has an irregular shape, causing light rays to focus unevenly on the retina at the back of the eye. This can result in blurry or distorted vision at any distance.
The specific causes of astigmatism are not always clear, but several factors are known to contribute to its development, including:
Genetics: Astigmatism can run in families, and people with a family history of this condition are more likely to develop it themselves.
Eye injuries: Injuries or trauma to the eye can cause changes in the shape of the cornea or lens, leading to astigmatism.
Eye surgery: Certain types of eye surgery, such as cataract surgery, can cause astigmatism as a side effect.
Keratoconus: This progressive eye disease causes the cornea to be thin and bulge into a cone-like shape, resulting in astigmatism.
Age-related changes: As we age, changes in the shape and flexibility of the lens inside the eye can cause astigmatism and other vision problems.
Corneal scarring: Scarring of the cornea due to injury, infection, or disease can cause astigmatism.
It’s important to note that astigmatism can also occur in combination with other vision problems, such as nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia).
What are the symptoms of Astigmatism?
The symptoms of astigmatism can vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. Some people may not even be aware they have astigmatism until they undergo a comprehensive eye exam. However, some common symptoms of astigmatism include the following:
Blurred or distorted vision: This is the most common symptom of astigmatism. People with astigmatism may have difficulty seeing objects clearly at any distance.
Headaches: Straining the eyes to compensate for blurred or distorted vision can lead to frequent headaches.
Eye fatigue: Squinting or straining the eyes to see clearly can cause eye fatigue or discomfort, especially after prolonged reading, computer work or other close activities.
Difficulty seeing at night: Astigmatism can make it difficult to see objects in low light conditions, such as driving at night.
Double vision: In some cases, astigmatism may cause double vision, where one image appears as two overlapping or adjacent images.
Eye strain: Astigmatism can cause eyestrain or tired eyes, especially after prolonged activities that require a lot of visual efforts, such as reading, driving or using digital devices.
Diagnosing and treating astigmatism can help you achieve clear and comfortable vision, and reduce the risk of further eye problems.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, book an appointment to see our in-house opticians.
Astigmatism is typically diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. The exam may include several tests to evaluate the shape and function of the eyes, including:
Visual acuity test: This test measures how well you can see letters on an eye chart from a distance.
Refraction test: This test measures the way your eyes bend or refract light and helps determine your prescription for corrective lenses.
Keratometry: This test measures the curvature of the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, using a special instrument called a keratometer.
Corneal topography: This test maps the surface of the cornea using computerized imaging technology.
Retinal exam: This test examines the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, to ensure it is healthy.
If you have symptoms of astigmatism or a family history of the condition, your optician may perform additional tests to evaluate the shape and function of your eyes.
Once a diagnosis of astigmatism is made, your optician will work with you to develop a treatment plan that may include corrective lenses, such as glasses or contact lenses, or refractive surgery, depending on the severity of your condition and your personal preferences.
It is recommended that adults undergo a comprehensive eye exam at least once every two years, while children and people with certain health conditions may require more frequent eye exams. Regular eye exams can help detect and treat astigmatism and other eye problems early, preventing complications and preserving your vision.
Can I prevent Astigmatism?
Unfortunately, there is no known way to prevent astigmatism, as it is often a result of the natural shape and growth of the eye. However, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing other eye problems that may contribute to astigmatism, including:
Get regular eye exams: Regular eye exams can help detect and treat eye problems early, preventing complications and preserving your vision.
Protect your eyes: Wear protective eyewear when engaging in activities that could cause eye injuries, such as sports or home repairs.
Practice good eye hygiene: Wash your hands before touching your eyes, and avoid sharing eye makeup or contact lenses to reduce the risk of eye infections.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, getting enough sleep, and managing chronic health conditions can help maintain overall eye health.
Take breaks from digital devices: Long hours of staring at a computer or smartphone screen can cause eyestrain and dry eyes, which may worsen astigmatism symptoms.
While these steps may not prevent astigmatism, they can help maintain good eye health and reduce the risk of other eye problems that could contribute to astigmatism or other vision problems.
How do I treat Astigmatism?
The treatment for astigmatism depends on the severity of the condition and the preferences of the individual. Mild astigmatism may not require treatment, while more severe cases may require corrective lenses or surgery. Here are some common treatments for astigmatism:
Glasses: Prescription eyeglasses with cylindrical lenses can be used to correct astigmatism. These lenses have different curvatures in different parts of the lens, which compensate for the uneven curvature of the cornea and help focus light properly on the retina.
Contact lenses: Toric contact lenses are designed specifically to correct astigmatism. These lenses have different powers in different parts of the lens to correct the uneven curvature of the cornea.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): This is a non-surgical treatment that uses special rigid contact lenses to reshape the cornea overnight while you sleep, resulting in improved vision without the need for glasses or contacts during the day.
Refractive surgery: In some cases, refractive surgery, such as LASIK or PRK, can be used to reshape the cornea and correct astigmatism. During these procedures, a laser is used to remove a small amount of tissue from the cornea, which changes its shape and improves vision.
It’s important to note that while glasses and contact lenses can effectively correct astigmatism, they do not cure the condition. Refractive surgery can provide a more permanent solution, but it is not always suitable for everyone and carries some risks and potential side effects.
If you have astigmatism, it’s important to discuss your treatment options with an optician. They can evaluate the severity of your condition, your personal preferences, and your overall eye health to recommend the best course of treatment for you.
In conclusion, astigmatism is a common eye condition that affects many people. While it can be frustrating to deal with, it is very treatable with the right tools and care. If you are experiencing symptoms of astigmatism, it is important to schedule an appointment with your optician as soon as possible. With the right diagnosis and treatment, you can enjoy clear, comfortable vision once again.
FAQ
Can Astigmatism Be Cured?
Yes, some types of astigmatism can be cured using OrthoK treatment and laser eye surgery. Corneal operations can cure high amounts.
Can Astigmatism Be Corrected?
Yes, astigmatism can be corrected using spectacle and contact lenses.
Can Astigmatism Go Away?
Yes, but only low amounts of astigmatism sometimes go away.
Can Astigmatism Get Worse?
Yes, astigmatism very often gets worse.
Can Astigmatism Cause Blindness?
No, astigmatism doesn’t often cause blindness. Although, large amounts of irregular astigmatism caused by keratoconus can lead to very poor vision.
Cataracts are a common eye condition that occurs when the natural lens in the eye becomes cloudy or opaque. The lens is a clear structure located behind the iris (the coloured part of the eye) that helps to focus light onto the retina at the back of the eye. When the lens becomes cloudy, it can interfere with the passage of light through the eye, leading to vision problems.
Cataracts can occur in one or both eyes and can develop slowly over time or progress rapidly. They are most commonly associated with ageing, but can also be caused by other factors such as injury, genetics, or medical conditions such as diabetes.
Types of Cataracts
There are three primary types of cataracts, which include:
Nuclear Cataracts
Nuclear cataracts develop in the centre (nucleus) of the eye’s natural lens, which lies behind the iris and the pupil. This type is typically associated with ageing and is the most common form of cataract.
Nuclear cataracts develop when the proteins in the eye’s lens begin to clump together and cause the lens to become less transparent. This clumping can cause the lens to turn yellow or brown, leading to blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, and reduced colour perception.
The symptoms of nuclear cataracts can develop gradually and may not be noticeable in the early stages. However, as it progresses, you may experience blurred or hazy vision, increased sensitivity to glare, and a decreased ability to see colours. You may also require frequent changes to your eyeglass prescription.
Cortical Cataracts
Cortical cataracts develop in the outer portion of the eye’s natural lens, called the cortex. The cortex is made up of layers of fibres that surround the nucleus, or central portion, of the lens.
Cortical cataracts develop when the fibres in the cortex begin to break down and form wedge-shaped opacities, or cloudy areas, in the lens. These opacities can grow larger and more numerous over time, leading to visual disturbances and decreased vision.
The symptoms of cortical cataracts can include blurry or distorted vision, difficulty with glare, and a reduction in colour perception. Some people may also experience double vision or the sensation of halos around lights.
Subcapsular Cataracts
Subcapsular cataracts develop on the back surface of the eye’s natural lens, just underneath the lens capsule. The lens capsule is a clear, outer membrane that surrounds the lens and holds it in place.
Subcapsular cataracts can develop quickly and progress rapidly, causing significant visual disturbances. This type of cataract can be further categorized into two subtypes: posterior subcapsular cataracts and anterior subcapsular cataracts:
Posterior subcapsular cataracts develop at the back of the lens capsule and can cause blurry or distorted vision, especially when looking at bright lights. People with this type may also experience difficulty seeing in low-light conditions, such as when driving at night.
Anterior subcapsular cataracts develop at the front of the lens capsule and can cause glare, halos, and reduced colour perception. This type is often associated with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or chronic steroid use.
Causes of Cataracts
While the exact cause is unknown, several factors can increase the likelihood of developing this condition. These factors include:
Ageing: Cataracts are more common in older adults, with the majority of cases occurring in people over 60 years old.
Family History: If you have a family history of cataracts, you are more likely to develop them.
Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity can increase your risk of developing cataracts.
Lifestyle Factors: Poor diet, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and prolonged exposure to sunlight can also increase your risk of developing cataracts.
It is important to note that while some risk factors for cataracts cannot be controlled, such as age and genetics, there are lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of cataract development, such as wearing UV-protective eyewear and quitting smoking. Regular eye exams can also help with early detection and treatment.
Symptoms of Cataracts
Cataracts can develop slowly over time and may not present any noticeable symptoms initially. As they progress, however, you may experience:
Blurry or Hazy Vision: You may find it difficult to see objects clearly, especially in bright light.
Reduced Color Perception: Colors may appear less vibrant or have a yellowish tint.
Double Vision: You may see double images of objects.
Glare and Halos: You may experience glare or halos around light sources.
Frequent Prescription Changes: You may need to update your glasses or contact lens prescription more frequently.
Cataracts can develop slowly over time, and the symptoms may not be noticeable at first. Regular eye exams with an optometrist can help with early detection and treatment, even before symptoms develop. If you are experiencing any changes in your vision, it is important to schedule an appointment with your optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, book an appointment with us today.
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent cataracts, you can reduce your risk by following these steps:
Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays: Wear sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection, especially when you are outdoors.
Quit Smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of developing cataracts and other eye diseases.
Manage Your Health: Manage any underlying medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity that can increase your risk of developing cataracts.
Eat a Healthy Diet: Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants like vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and lutein, like leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables.
Get Regular Eye Exams: Regular eye exams can help detect and treat any eye conditions early.
How to Treat Cataracts
When cataracts start to affect your quality of life, your optometrist may recommend surgery. Cataract surgery is a common procedure and involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens. This procedure typically takes less than an hour and is performed under local anaesthesia. The artificial lens used in the procedure can be tailored to your individual needs, and you can usually resume your daily activities within a few days.
In conclusion, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms of cataracts or have any concerns about your eye health, it is essential to schedule an appointment with your optometrist. They can diagnose and treat any eye conditions early, leading to better outcomes and a higher quality of life. By following the steps to prevent cataracts, you can reduce your risk of developing this condition and maintain healthy eyes for years to come. If you would like to learn more about cataracts, please contact us or visit the NHS website.
Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by damage to the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness. In this article, we will discuss what glaucoma is, the risk factors for the disease, and the treatments available to help manage it.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye disorders that damage the optic nerve. The most common form is known as primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), which causes an increase in pressure inside the eye. This increase in pressure is known as intraocular pressure (IOP) and is caused by a build-up of fluid in the eye. When this fluid cannot drain properly, it causes the IOP to rise. Over time, the increased pressure can damage the optic nerve, resulting in a loss of vision.
Who is at risk?
There are several factors that increase a person’s risk of developing glaucoma. These include:
Age: The risk increases as we get older, especially after the age of 60.
Family history: If a close relative has glaucoma, you are more likely to develop the disease.
Ethnicity: African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and people of Asian descent are at a higher risk.
High blood pressure: People with high blood pressure are at an increased risk.
Previous eye injury or surgery: People who have had eye injuries or surgery are at a higher risk.
Long-term use of steroid medications: People who take steroid medications for a long period of time are at a higher risk.
What are the symptoms of Glaucoma?
In the early stages, there are often no symptoms. As the disease progresses, people may experience symptoms such as:
Blurred vision
Tunnel vision
Loss of peripheral vision
Loss of night vision
Halos around lights
Pain in the eye
It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other eye conditions, so it is important to see an optometrist for an accurate diagnosis.
How do you treat Glaucoma?
The goal of treatment for glaucoma is to lower the intraocular pressure and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. There are several treatment options available, including:
Medications: Eye drops, pills, or injections can be used to lower intraocular pressure. These medications work by decreasing the amount of fluid produced in the eye or increasing the amount of fluid that drains from the eye.
Laser surgery: This procedure uses a laser to create a small hole in the eye to help the fluid drain more quickly.
Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to create a new drainage channel for the fluid in the eye.
It’s important to note that there is no cure, so treatment is focused on slowing the progression of the disease and preserving vision. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection and management. Our in-house optician Richard commented on the importance of having regular eye tests to detect early signs of glaucoma:
Glaucoma is one of the major causes of blindness. However, regular eye examinations will detect glaucoma at an early stage before visual loss occurs. I thoroughly recommend a yearly examination if you’re in a high risk group and also having the OCT scans that can detect early glaucoma before irreversible visual loss occurs. Please look after your eyes.
In conclusion, Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to blindness if left untreated. Understanding the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options can help you to manage the disease and preserve your vision. Therefore, if you are at a higher risk it is especially important to schedule regular eye exams to catch any signs of the disease early on. For more information, please contact us directly or visit the NHS website.
If you feel that you are at riskor if you are experiencing any symptoms, book an appointment with us.
Yes if you’re over 40 with a close family history of glaucoma or over 60. There are some other groups that are entitled to a free NHS test. Visit the NHS website for more details.
Can glaucoma be cured?
Yes, some glaucomas can be cured with operations.
Can glaucoma cause blindness?
Yes, glaucoma can cause blindness. Therefore, early detection is very important.
Can glaucoma cause headaches?
Acute angle closure glaucoma produces extreme pain around the eye which may be confused with a headache.
How glaucoma is diagnosed?
An optometrist will perform 3 tests: 1) Eye pressure check. 2) Examining the optic nerve using ophthalmoscopy or an OCT. 3) Visual field testing.
How does glaucoma affect vision?
Glaucoma affects vision by damaging nerve fibres around the optic nerve.
How does glaucoma occur?
Glaucoma occurs when the pressure in the eye is too high for that eye. The aqueous fluid at the front of the eye builds up and/or the drainage is poor.
