Glaucoma is the leading cause of avoidable blindness in Australia, impacting over 300,000 Australians. Alarmingly, 50% of people with glaucoma remain undiagnosed, putting their vision at serious risk. Although 9 out of 10 Australians value sight as their most important sense, more than 8 million Australians still skip regular eye tests.
Glaucoma Awareness Month is the perfect time to understand this silent sight thief, its risks, and how early detection can save your vision.
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions typically caused by increased intraocular pressure (IOP), which can damage the optic nerve. As the optic nerve deteriorates, irreversible vision loss occurs, ofte n without warning signs.
The eye produces a clear liquid that nourishes it and maintains its shape. This liquid drains through a structure called the anterior chamber angle. When this drainage system is impaired, fluid builds up, causing high IOP and subsequent optic nerve damage.
Types of Glaucoma
There are two main types of glaucoma:
- Open-Angle Glaucoma:
This is the most common type. The drainage angle remains open, but the trabecular meshwork is partially blocked, leading to gradual pressure buildup and optic nerve damage over time. - Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma:
A rare but severe form, this occurs when the drainage angle becomes suddenly blocked. Symptoms include:
– Severe eye pain
– Headaches and nausea
– Blurred vision or halos around lights
– Watery eyes
This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention from an eye care professional.
Early Signs and Symptoms
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because symptoms are usually unnoticeable until significant damage has occured. Key signs to watch for include:
- High eye pressure
- Blurred vision
- Loss of peripheral (side) vision
If you experience any of these symptoms, book an eye test immediately. Regular eye exams every 3-6 months are vital for those at risk.
Who is at Risk for Glaucoma?
Certain factors increase your risk of developing glaucoma:
- Family history (10x higher risk)
- Age: Over 50 for most, or over 40 if you have other risk factors
- Ethnicity: Higher prevalence in individuals of Asian or African descent
- Other conditions: Diabetes, high or low blood pressure, migraines, or previous eye injuries
- Prolonged cortisone use
- Myopia (nearsightedness)
Importance of Early Detection
Glaucoma often progresses silently, causing irreversible vision loss before symptoms arise. Early detection is the best defense. A comprehensive eye exam can identify the disease in its early stages, allowing for timely intervention to slow or halt progression.
What to Expect During A Glaucoma Test
An optometrist will perform several tests to assess your eye health and detect glaucoma, including:
- Eye pressure measurement (Tonometry)
- Optic nerve examination (via dilation drops)
- Visual field testing (to evaluate peripheral vision)
- Angle assessment (where the iris meets the cornea)
- Corneal thickness measurement
If diagnosed, treatment options may include prescription eye drops, laser treatment , or surgery to reduce IOP and prevent further damage of the eyes.
Take Action Now
Glaucoma Australia CEO Annie Gibbins emphasises the importance of regular eye exams for everyone, especially if you have risk factors. “We want to dispel the myth that glaucoma only affects the elderly. Anyone with a family history or other risk factors should have their eyes tested regulary,” she says.
Book an Eye Test Today
Protect your sight with a comprehensive eye exam. While vision loss cannot be reversed, early detection can safeguard your remaining sight and improve your quality of life.
Don’t Wait – Act During Glaucoma Awareness Month
Glaucoma doesn’t wait, and neither should you. Book your eye test at Adelaide City Optometrist today and take the first step in protecting your vision. Early detection could save your sight.