Protect your eyesight plea in awareness campaign
‘Silent thief’ warning over all too common condition
Hundreds of people living in Wishaw are at risk of having their vision stolen by a condition often dubbed as the ‘silent thief of sight’.
Around 3,270 North Lanarkshire residents are in danger of going blind from glaucoma – one of the largest causes of blindness in the world – due to its gradual onset.
Specsavers in Wishaw is highlighting the importance of looking after your eyes as part of Glaucoma Awareness Week.
Erin Riddell, optician at Specsavers in Wishaw, said: “There are several factors which can increase your risk of developing glaucoma such as a family history of the disease.
“Other risk factors would include those who have black-african or Asian heritage as well as those who have higher levels of short sightedness.
“Of course, age also needs to be considered as two in every 100 people over the age of 40 are affected with the condition.
“The good news is glaucoma can generally be treated effectively if detected early, and in most cases, daily eye drops are used.”
Glaucoma usually occurs when naturallyoccurring fluid inside the eye does not drain properly, leading to a build-up of pressure.
This can then cause damage to the optic nerve and nerve fibres from the retina, in most cases without any symptoms.
While the condition cannot be reversed, it can be managed – but early detection is key.
Symptoms can vary depending on what type of glaucoma you have – either chronic or acute.
Many don’t realise there is anything wrong with their sight which is why regular visits to the optician are essential.
Erin added: “With the most common form of glaucoma, visual loss is initially very subtle, affecting mainly the peripheral vision rather than central, which can make it harder to notice.