What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases caused by Intraocular pressure (IOP) which is essentially pressure on the eyes; this pressure damages the optic nerve. Within just a few years this disease can cause vision loss and even blindness.
What is the first sign of glaucoma?
A lot of people don’t experience any symptoms early on, which is why having your eyes checked regularly (at least every two years) is so vital. Signs of developing Glaucoma include:
- Blurred vision
- Painful eyes
- Headaches
- Pain in your abdomen
- Vomiting and/or nausea
- Halos around lights
You should book an eye test as soon as you experience any kind of vision loss, early detection could save your sight.
How can I prevent glaucoma?
The best way to prevent Glaucoma is to get your eyes tested regularly. You can prevent vision loss and blindness if your Glaucoma is detected early enough. As soon as you see a change in your vision, book yourself an eye test. Your optician will be able to detect any early issues and help you treat them before they get worse.
Am I likely to get glaucoma?
You are more at risk of getting this particular eye disease if you:
- Have a family history of glaucoma
- Are over 40 years old
- Are short-sighted
- Have Hypertension
- Have high blood pressure
- Have diabetes
- Are long-sighted
- Are female
Can you have glaucoma in just one eye?
It is possible to have glaucoma in just one eye. However, most people will end up developing this disease in both eyes eventually. For this reason, a lot of doctors decide to treat both eyes.
Acute angle-closure glaucoma
If you are diagnosed with acute-angle glaucoma, you’ll need to seek immediate medical attention. Treatments for this form of the disease include medication as well as laser surgery.
Glaucoma and contact lenses
You can still wear contact lenses if you develop glaucoma. You prescription may change over time so you should pay attention to any changes in your vision and get your eyes examined regularly. You can find a range of branded contact lenses for the most affordable price in the UK, at Feel Good Contacts.
