Understanding Glaucoma and Its Impact on Vision
Glaucoma is a leading cause of preventable blindness, affecting thousands of people across the UK. Often called the ‘silent thief of sight,’ this condition gradually damages the optic nerve, usually due to increased eye pressure. The biggest concern? Many people don’t experience symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred. Regular eye examinations are crucial to detect glaucoma early, allowing for timely intervention and treatment to help safeguard your vision before it’s too late.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye disease that affects the optic nerve, the part of the eye responsible for transmitting visual information to the brain. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss.
• Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most common type, and it develops slowly, making regular eye tests essential for early detection.
• Angle-closure glaucoma, a less common but more severe form, can cause sudden symptoms like eye pain, headaches, and blurred vision, requiring immediate medical attention.
Are You at Risk?
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing glaucoma, including:
Age: People over 40 are at higher risk, with the likelihood growing significantly after 60.
Family History: If a close relative has glaucoma, your chances of developing it are higher.
Ethnicity: People of African, Caribbean, or Asian descent have a greater risk.
Health Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure can contribute to glaucoma development.
High Eye Pressure: Increased intraocular pressure (IOP) is a significant risk factor for nerve damage.
The Importance of Regular Eye Examinations
Because glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms, regular eye examinations are the only way to detect it early. During a comprehensive eye exam, optometrists check for:
Intraocular Pressure (IOP): High eye pressure is a warning sign.
Optic Nerve Health: Advanced imaging like OCT scans can detect early damage.
Visual Field Testing: Identifying any blind spots in your vision.
NHS guidelines recommend eye tests every two years, but those at higher risk should have annual check-ups. If detected early, glaucoma can often be managed with eye drops, laser treatments, or surgery to prevent further deterioration.
Why Choose Arthur Hayes Crowborough for Your Eye Care?
At Arthur Hayes Eyecare, we protect your vision and overall eye health. Here’s why we should be your first choice for eye examinations:
🔍 Advanced Diagnostic Technology: We use state-of-the-art equipment, including Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans, to detect glaucoma at its earliest stages.
👁 Expert Optometrists: Our experienced team provides thorough, professional eye care tailored to your needs.
🏥 Comprehensive Care: From routine eye tests to specialised glaucoma screenings, we offer personalised advice and management plans.
💷 NHS and Private Eye Tests Available: We cater to all patients, ensuring access to high-quality eye care regardless of budget.
Book Your Eye Examination Today
Glaucoma is a serious condition, but with regular check-ups and expert care, vision loss can often be prevented. Don’t wait until symptoms appear—book your eye examination at Arthur Hayes Crowborough today to protect your sight for the future.
📞 Call us now to schedule your appointment.
