Safeguard your eyesight from glaucoma

Glaucoma is relatively common eye disorder caused by an elevated level of eye pressure that, if left untreated could cause blindness.

Early detection can help slow down the progression of glaucoma which damages the optic nerve found at the back of the eye.

Glaucoma tends to progress slowly at first, making the condition virtually symptomless which can result in untold damage to the eye. Those with the condition are often unaware of its presence until their vision has already been affected.

At Optilase Northern Ireland, you can book an eye consultation if you have been experiencing problems with your eyesight and wish to identify the possible cause and treatment.

Types of Glaucoma

Glaucoma affects the optic nerve which is the part of the eye that carries messages to the brain. It is crucial to diagnose glaucoma at the earliest possible stage, as once vision is lost to the condition, it cannot be restored.

Open-Angle Glaucoma: This is the most common type of glaucoma and is caused by inadequate drainage channels in the eye, which causes eye pressure to rise which is turn causes irreparable damage to the optic nerve.

Closed-Angle Glaucoma: This less common form of glaucoma results in the iris being pushed against the lens in the eye which prevents drainage of the aqueous humor and leads to a spike in eye pressure.

Diagnosing Glaucoma

Glaucoma can develop in anyone, but those over the age of 60 are at a greater risk or if there is a family history of the condition. Certain medical conditions such as diabetes can also increase a person’s risk of developing glaucoma.

An in-depth eye examination which can be carried out at any Optilase clinic across Northern Ireland will be able to determine if glaucoma is present.

During a test for glaucoma, inner eye pressure will be checked by administering a puff of air to the surface of the eye, with the normal pressure range being 12-22mmHG (millimetres of mercury).

The shape and colour of optic nerve will be checked for any signs of glaucoma damage while other tests will measure corneal thickness, the angle in the eye where the iris meets the cornea as well as a person’s complete field of vision.

To ensure that your eyes are healthy and free from any signs of glaucoma, arrange an eye consultation at Optilase Northern Ireland. Call 08000 121 565.