Spotlight on Glaucoma
From 12th – 18th March we will be supporting World Glaucoma Week. It is important that everyone has regular eye health checks in order to detect glaucoma as early as possible. Fortunately, for many people early detection/diagnosis and treatment can prevent further/sight loss.
This year, we’d like your help to raise glaucoma awareness by sharing your experiences. We want to hear your story, positive
or negative, about diagnosis and treatment. We’d also love your help to encourage your friends and family to attend regular eye health checks (at least every two years, they might even be entitled to a free NHS-funded sight test).
Glaucoma is often caused by a build-up of fluid in the eye. This causes pressure in the eye to increase, which damages the optic
nerve and leads to sight loss. Eye drops are the most common treatment for glaucoma, there are several different kinds but all of them reduce the pressure in your eye. Used regularly as prescribed, they help keep the pressure at the right level for you.
Top tips:
• Follow your clinician’s instructions – administer the number of drops advised, on time every day. Establish
a routine and stick to it.
• Order further supplies before your eye drops finish to ensure you don’t run out.
• If you find it difficult to put your drops in – an eye drop dispensing aid might help.
The image on the above simulates what remaining sight with Glaucoma could be like.
Conversations about a glaucoma diagnosis can be daunting. So please remember, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Alternatively, you can contact Glaucoma UK. They run support groups, which can be a great way of sharing information and experiences.
www.glaucoma.uk
helpline@glaucoma.uk
01233 64 81 70
We will be raising awareness with a focus on prevention and the importance of getting things checked out.
Find out more:
To find out how 4Sight Vision Support can support you or someone you know living with sight loss, or more more information about how you too can support our fundraising effort, call our friendly team on: 01243 828 555 or email enquiries@4sight.org.uk