Glaucoma cases set to rise in Oldham

Cases of Glaucoma are set to rise

There are 2,020 people in Oldham living with Glaucoma and this is set to rise to 2,080 by 2020.

This week is World Glaucoma Week (March 11th-17th) and Specsavers Oldham is stressing the importance of having regular eye tests to detect the early signs and symptoms of Glaucoma.

Research shows that men are 16% more likely to lose their sight then women with the condition, because they do not seek help as quickly as women do.

Catherine Hughes, Store Director at Specsavers in Oldham and Royton, says, “Glaucoma occurs when naturally-occuring fluid inside the eye does not drain properly causing a build-up of pressure.

This condition often affects both eyes, usually to varying degrees, however, there are two types. Chronic Glaucoma which develops slowly and Acute Glaucoma which develops rapidly with a sudden, painful build-up of pressure in the eye.”

Optometrists are carrying out eye pressure tests using a tonometer. This instrument is used to measure the pressure inside the eye and is useful in identifying people who might have or are at risk of developing glaucoma.

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