Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the name given to a group of eye diseases where vision is lost due to damage to the optic nerve (Role: sends visual messages to the brain) from increased intra-ocular pressure.
There are many types of glaucoma and generally there are no symptoms or warning signs in the early stages. The loss of sight is usually gradual and a considerable amount of peripheral (side) vision may be lost before there is an awareness of any problem.
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2 in 100 Australians will develop Glaucoma in their lifetime
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1 in 8 Australians aged over 80 years will develop glaucoma
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First degree relatives of people with glaucoma have an up to 10-fold increased risk of developing the disease
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Currently, about 50% of people with glaucoma remain undetected.
Best way to protect your sight from glaucoma is to have a comprehensive eye test.
