Glaucoma is an eye condition that causes vision loss through damage to the optic nerve. The vision loss generally occurs over a period of time, but it cannot be self-detected. Although glaucoma is commonly a disease developed as we age, many people are unaware that it can occur at any age. Unfortunately, there is no cure for glaucoma but with early detection we can delay the progression of the disease.

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The vision loss experienced is derived from the brain not receiving the entire image captured by the eyes. This is a result of damage to the optic nerve. Increased pressure within the eye (intraocular pressure or IOP) is the most common culprit in the development of Glaucoma .

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There are treatments that can be used to try to reduce the pressure in the eye of Glaucoma sufferers; including eye drops, laser surgery and conventional surgery, but there are no permanent treatments.

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According to Glaucoma Australia;

• 2 in 100 Australians will develop Glaucoma in their lifetime

• 1 in 8 Australians aged over 80 years will develop Glaucoma

• First degree relatives of people with Glaucoma have an up to 10-fold increased risk of developing the disease

• Currently, about 50% of people with Glaucoma remain undetected.

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If you are concerned with any unusual vision loss, please call us to book a BULK BILLED consultation with our Optometrist.