Glaucoma is a collection of eye diseases that if left undetected and untreated, can lead to optic nerve damage and permanent vision loss. It is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide.
Glaucoma has no significant symptoms so can sneak up on you, going undetected until it’s too late. That is why the condition is known as the “silent thief of sight.”
Approximately 300,000 Australians have glaucoma and 50% of people with the condition are undiagnosed. Due to our growing population and longer life expectancy, this figure is expected to rise in the future. At age 40, 1 in 200 people have the condition, increasing to almost 1 in 10 at age 80.
Specific eye tests are done during a routine eye examination to screen for glaucoma. These involve an intra-ocular pressure measurement and we have 3 techniques for this, imaging the optic nerve and retina with an OCT.
If there is heightened risk further examinations may include scans and examination of the front of the eye, a visual field assessment to map the peripheral vision, intra-ocular pressure testing across a day and potential referral for review with an ophthalmologist or eye surgeon to co-manage the condition if required.
Glaucoma can be treated with medication, laser treatment or surgery. Early detection and treatment of this condition can prevent or delay vision loss. To help avoid glaucoma, people should have their eyes regularly examined by an eye care professional.
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