National Glaucoma Week
Week commencing June 12th is National Glaucoma Awareness week in the UK.
Glaucoma is often referred to as the ‘silent thief of sight’ due to the fact that the disease has a gradual onset and causes damage to the optic nerve in the eye.
Glaucoma is the world’s leading cause of irreversible blindness with over 600,000 affected in the UK and over 6m worldwide.
With often very few early symptoms, Glaucoma is often only picked up during routine eye tests so regular tests become absolutely vital in the fight against this silent disease. Both eyes are usually affected and can lead to blindness unless treated.
Glaucoma is usually caused by a blockage in the part of the eye that allows fluid to drain from it.
This can lead to a build up of fluid and pressure in the eye can cause damage to the optic nerve.
There is no clear cause for Glaucoma although there are some reasons that may increase your chances of getting the problem including:
- Age. Glaucoma is more likely the older your get with the most common types affecting men and women over 75 more so.
- People of African, Caribbean and Asian origin are more likely to be affected
- If you have a family history of Glaucoma you are more likely to develop the problem later in life.
Ahmed Kamal, Consultant Opthalmologist at The Sefton Suite in Liverpool explains,
“It is not possible to reverse the damage already caused by Glaucoma but with the correct treatment it is possible to slow the effects of the disease moving forward.
It is vital to receive regular eye tests and act on any information immediately.
If you are concerned following an eye examination please contact us on 0151 330 6551 for an immediate appointment to discuss your options.