Am I at risk of developing Glaucoma?
In Australia, it is estimated that over 300,000 people have glaucoma but only around half are aware that they have the condition. While anyone may develop glaucoma, some risk factors may place people at a higher risk.
Because some types of glaucoma can be hereditary (passed down in families), it’s important that you ask about your family history and tell your family that you have been diagnosed so they can get checked too.
How often should I get checked for Glaucoma?
Glaucoma cannot be self-detected. Only an Optometrist or an Ophthalmologist can determine whether you have glaucoma and early detection is critical to slowing or halting vision loss.
We recommend being initially screened for glaucoma around the age of 40.
Vision loss caused by glaucoma is irreversible, so early detection means better outcomes.
Why do I need so many tests for Glaucoma?
Though a diagnosis of glaucoma is straightforward in most cases, others can be more difficult to diagnose.
Optic nerve damage can occur due to many reasons and would require different diagnostic methods to detect. Once glaucoma is diagnosed, visual field tests are used to monitor long term control and progression.
Comprehensive eye examinations are critical in helping your doctors to diagnose the condition, monitor any changes, and recommend a tailored treatment plan.
There are many tools available to your Ophthalmologist including:
Undilated gonioscopy examination of the angles, following by a full dilated exam to assess the optic nerve, retina and macula to provide a risk assessment and baseline measurements.
Tests your intraocular pressure as one of the main risk factors for glaucoma.
Measures the thickness of the cornea, which affects the actual intraocular pressure.
Automated tests which can detect early peripheral vision loss and monitor its progression.
A comparative scan of your optic nerve against a normal database to aid diagnosis of glaucoma and allow monitoring of progressive optic nerve damage.
I've just been diagnosed with Glaucoma, now what?
Glaucoma is a life-long condition, and while there is no cure, it can be effectively managed with treatment and regular comprehensive eye examinations.
Depending on the cause of your glaucoma, your doctor will create a treatment plan to reduce the pressure in your eye to prevent or minimise further damage to your optic nerve.
In many cases, a combination of treatments is required that can include medicated eye drops, selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) and trabeculectomy or drainage tube surgery.
The sooner treatment begins, the better we can protect your vision.
Where can I get help and advice?
Organisations that may provide additional support if you have been diagnosed with glaucoma include:
- Glaucoma Australia: https://glaucoma.org.au/
- Guide Dogs Qld: https://qld.guidedogs.com.au/
- Guide Dogs NSW: https://nsw.guidedogs.com.au/
- Vision Australia: https://www.visionaustralia.org/