Pressure inside the eye is required to keep the eye inflated like a football. Fluids within the eye are produced at the ciliary body, flow around the anterior chamber, and drain through the angle back into the blood stream.

A slight restriction at the angle causes a back pressure and this is the pressure the eye needs to sustain its shape. In glaucoma too much fluid is produced or its outflow is restricted so the pressure rises. The rise in pressure is small and gradual and no pain or blurred vision results.

Gradually the pressure attacks the small blood vessels which feed the optic nerve head and in turn the nerves which conduct the sight to the brain are destroyed and loss of vision results. It is the longest nerves which are effected first and these control the peripheral vision and losses here are not easily noticed by the person until too late.

The result of untreated glaucoma is tunnel vision.

How do you get Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is as if the eye itself has a design fault which is not apparent until later in life. About 20 people in a 100 are effected but this is much higher if a close relative has glaucoma; the 'design fault' can be passed on to the next generation.

The role of the optician
In its early stages a lot of vision can be lost gradually if undetected. The optician can see these changes looking into the eye. Their findings can be verified by measuring the eye pressure (tonometry) and visual field testing.

Curing Glaucoma?
No sight already lost can be restored but further losses can be avoided relatively easily. Eye drops which reduce the production of the pressure fluids or open up the drainage channels can be prescribed. Surgery may be considered; today this has been made simpler by lasers

Vision losses may not be rapid so regular eye tests annually are sufficient for people over 40 years, especially if you have relatives with this condition. Inform your optician of any such history.

If you are worried in any way about your eyes, you can call us on 0800 9549 100 to book an appointment with an optician who will be able to test your eyes and assess any potential problems.