Glaucoma is a collective term for a group of eye conditions that gradually damage the optic nerve, often due to elevated pressure within the eye. While it commonly affects both eyes, one eye may be more affected than the other. Managing glaucoma is crucial as it can lead to vision loss over time. Symptoms and Detection The challenge with glaucoma lies in the fact that symptoms typically manifest when it’s nearly too late for treatment. Peripheral vision loss is an early indicator, detectable during routine eye tests conducted by optometrists, therefore it is crucial you undergo regular eye health assessments with your designated optometrist. One uncommon type of glaucoma, known as acute angle closure, can start with a sudden and painful build-up of pressure. This is an ophthalmic emergency and may be accompanied with a lot of pain and blurred vision; it is preventable and can be treated. If you ever experience symptoms like these, seek help straight away from your optometrist, registered eye clinic or casualty department. Causes of Glaucoma The eyes produce a fluid called aqueous humour, which normally drains away, maintaining consistent pressure. If drainage is impeded, ocular hypertension, or raised eye pressure, can occur. Glaucoma arises when this pressure damages the optic nerve, causing changes in vision. In the case of acute angle-closure glaucoma, a sudden rise in pressure can result from a blockage in the eye’s draining system, often observed in individuals who are long-sighted or have smaller-sized eyes. Diagnosis and Referral Your optometrist conducts various tests during regular eye exams to identify potential signs of glaucoma, including eye pressure checks, field of vision assessments, and optic nerve health evaluations. If glaucoma is suspected, you’ll be referred for further diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan. Treatments Treatment for glaucoma varies and may involve monitoring, eye drops, or, in some cases, surgery. Eye DropsSpecialist eye drops are a common treatment, aiding in reducing eye pressure and preventing further damage. Regular check-ups with an ophthalmologist ensure effective monitoring.Laser Treatment (SLT)Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is recommended in early glaucoma cases. This non-invasive procedure uses light pulses to assist fluid drainage, potentially eliminating the need for eye drops.Surgery (Trabeculectomy)In rare cases, surgery may be required. Trabeculectomy, the most common surgical procedure, aims to reduce eye pressure. Your consultant will guide you through the process if surgery is recommended. If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma or are at risk, regular monitoring by our consultants is vital. Our team is here to guide you through every stage of your glaucoma journey. For more information or to learn about our services, please explore our website or contact us directly. Frequently Asked Questions What is glaucoma? Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions where the eye pressure is too high for your eyes and can cause nerve damage and over a longer-term period visual loss which is irreversible. Don’t worry, glaucoma is generally picked up early by your optometrists and treated by a doctor, so significant visual loss is unusual. How do we investigate glaucoma? There are several tests that help us diagnose glaucoma. Even then, the results may not be able to 100% diagnose glaucoma. The core tests are: A visual acuity test. A measure of the thickness of your cornea, called a pachymetry. After the test, what happens? Generally, the eye tests are undertaken by an optician or technician/nurse and these are then available for the doctor to review. You will be informed of the outcome of the tests within the next week or will be seen by the doctor at appointments. Can I drive to my appointments? As for any eye appointments, we would recommend that you do not drive. It may be that the doctor decides not to put in dilating drops but we often can’t decide that until the day of the consultation. How long will I have glaucoma? Glaucoma is a lifelong condition and, as such, you will be treated and monitored for life. This is often not too intrusive other than eye drops daily and then appointments every 6 to 12 months. Patient Testimonials Superb I just had my cataract surgery at CHEC. Despite my nerves, the staff were reassuring and made me feel comfortable. The surgery was quick, I was kept informed at every stage which was great. I cannot recommend CHEC highly enough. Gill Couldn’t fault them As soon as I arrived, I was made to feel at ease. All staff were friendly but professional, they couldn’t have been any better. I now have no fear in returning to continue my treatment. Linda S Excellent practice This was my first visit to CHEC, the Reception staff were extremely helpful and polite. All the other staff were very pleasant and made you feel welcome to be there, credit to you all. Linda James Lovely Staff Welcoming, friendly, attentive, efficient, and above all, patient. Having my eyes tested at this practice provided excellent service at a time when one might wonder why these tests are necessary. Thanks to the staff I met today. Kevin Johnson Absolutely brilliantly at Ilford The staff at Ilford were excellent. The nurses explained my procedure step by step, and when I met with the doctor, they were very welcoming and made me feel comfortable. Thank you so much. Barbara Murphy Friendly staff at Ilford Clinic The staff are all very friendly, very kind and very smiley. I had a good experience, and I would definitely recommend Ilford practice to friends and family. Raahim Fantastic service I had my second cataract procedure at CHEC in Blackpool today. Once again l was impressed by the kindness, helpfulness, good humour, and professionalism of everybody who works there. Thank you. Graham Jones Amazing experience I had a laser capsulotomy treatment in Stevenage on Monday 26th February. I was in and out of the treatment centre in under 10 minutes. All instructions were easy to follow with astonishing results. Well-done and thank you. S Frost Great and very patient focused The staff were brilliant at each stage which made the entire process calming, from consultation through to the surgery. The receptionists were fantastic. Kim All very professional and competent! I found the whole process to be highly professional and competent and would therefore recommend this organisation without reservation to anyone who needs cataract surgery. Nigel Morgan Wonderful stress-free experience I was made to feel relaxed from the moment we arrived by all the amazing staff. I wish other medical institutions were like this. Thank you. K.R. Great practice All the staff were attentive, polite and friendly. They listened to my individual needs and took great care of me. Mary Dyas Efficient service Really quick referral and appointment at CHEC Stockport. Lovely staff. Efficient and timely appropriate medical care. Responsive follow up. Premises are really clean and a pleasant experience at a worrying time of a health issue involving eyesight. Excellent care thank you! Richard Very pleased I am very pleased with the service at CHEC, it is absolutely first-class. From the receptionists, the way I was treated and having the operation done was good. Since having the operation my vision has been very good. Anonymous Fantastic experience The whole process has been very fast and exceeded my expectations. The staff are all very friendly and professional. I am very pleased with CHEC Northampton. Anonymous Great practice I’m amazed by the quick, efficient service and ecstatic about the results. I now see car number plates, road signs, and TV text bright and clearly, with everything appearing detailed. This is the best birthday present ever. Thank you so much, please don’t change a thing. Marian Curran