Glaucoma is increasing: Help spot the signs before it’s too late

A recent study has reported that there is a significant rise in the diagnosis of Glaucoma in the UK. Whilst this terrible disease typically affects those over 40, it is believed that the risk factors increase with age. It is now the number one cause of blindness in adults over 60. It is also a disease that is often overlooked or its symptoms are assigned to other ailments that a person may have.  Sight is a person’s most valued sense and this disease can rob people of it, if not diagnosed quickly. It is vital to know the signs and make sure your elderly friends, neighbours or loved ones are not showing signs of the onset of this disease. However, before we look at the most common warning signs, we must insist the very best form of protection is to ensure regular eye tests are taken.

Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that has very few early warning signs, but without treatment, it can lead to blindness. The disease happens when the pressure in the eye rises to a high level and physically damages the optic nerve. If unchecked, the pressure will increase and so will the damage to the optical nerve leading to loss of vision and ultimately blindness.

The most common form of glaucoma in the UK is known as open-angle glaucoma. Sadly it has no symptoms prior to peripheral vision loss most of the time. In some instances, the person may experience patchy vision or blind spots. Generally, the early signs of glaucoma are not apparent until vision loss has taken place.

There are some other symptoms of Glaucoma to pay attention to and please remember speed is of the essence here. It is always worth getting your, or loved ones, eyes checked out just to be safe. Many Glaucoma sufferers mention intense eye pain or severe headaches. These symptoms are enough to check with an optician to rule out this disease. The main symptom seems to be loss of peripheral vision (side vision). This can often be seen by people tripping and not seeing things at their feet.

We hope this guide helps and if you would like any more information on Glaucoma or other ailments, please get in touch.

“If you’re seeking more information or support regarding Glaucoma, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced team at We Care Together Southampton. For additional resources, you can also visit NHS UK – Glaucoma, Glaucoma UK, and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB). We’re here to provide the guidance and care your loved ones need.