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Glaucoma Care

Central Field Screening is a useful tool in the diagnosis of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a condition in which the fluid pressure within the eye increases and the nerve of sight becomes damaged. This can cause the area which you see to become smaller and smaller - so-called tunnel vision, which can eventually lead to blindness if left untreated. Instrumentation such as the Henson Central Field screener provides accurate early warning system of the subtle changes that can occur in a visual field.

Around 3% of the over 40s in the United Kingdom suffer from glaucoma. People who have it are rarely aware that there is anything wrong with their sight in the early stages, hence its description as "the thief of sight". Fortunately it can be detected by an optometrist during a routine eye examination, before any damage is done.

If glaucoma is diagnosed it can usually be controlled with eye drops or tablets, and your optometrist will be able to tell you more about this. Occasionally, however, laser treatment or surgery may be necessary to control the pressure.

Are you at risk?

How do you know if you are at risk? You are more likely to develop glaucoma if it is present in either of your parents or your immediate family. If this is the case, and you are over 40, then you are entitled to have regular eye examinations carried out by an optometrist, but paid for by the National Health Service.

If you have been diagnosed as having glaucoma there is no reason why you cannot lead a normal life. As long as your eyesight has not been impaired you will still be able to drive a car, although the DVLC will have to be informed of your condition. In most cases you will still be able to wear contact lenses, play sport, and lead a normal social life.

Regular eye examination by an optometrist may be the best way to reassure yourself that glaucoma is not present, or, if you are at risk, that it would be detected and treated at the earliest possible opportunity.