FOCUS ON GLAUCOMA

As cases of the eye condition rise, CAMILLA FOSTER explores the symptoms and what to do about it

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KEY SIGN: Red eyes and tenderness around the eye are common symptoms

RESEARCHERS have predicted that cases of glaucoma, a common eye condition that can lead to blindness if not treated, are expected to increase by 60% to 1.6 million across the UK by 2060.

What is glaucoma?

“Glaucoma is a group of diseases in which the optic nerve is damaged by pressure of the fluid inside the eye,” explains Denise Voon, clinical adviser at The College of Optometrists. “It can affect one or both of your eyes and can lead to sight loss if not treated.”

The two most common types are chronic and acute glaucoma. “Chronic glaucoma develops slowly and is the most common form in the UK, while acute glaucoma (also known as acute angle-closure glaucoma) is caused by a rapid increase in the pressure,” says Denise.

Who is more at risk?