Glaucoma
Often called the “silent thief of sight”, glaucoma damages the optic nerve quietly and painlessly — usually with no symptoms until vision is already lost. The good news: regular screening catches it early.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve — the cable that carries images from your eye to your brain. In most cases, fluid pressure builds up inside the eye and slowly destroys nerve fibres. The damage is permanent and cannot be reversed.
Why is it called the “silent thief of sight”?
The most common form, open-angle glaucoma, usually has no early symptoms. Central vision stays sharp while side (peripheral) vision narrows gradually, so many people only notice a problem once significant damage has occurred.
Who is at risk?
You are at higher risk if you:
- Are over the age of 40
- Have a family history of glaucoma
- Have high eye pressure
- Have diabetes
- Have used steroid medication long-term
- Have had an eye injury or eye surgery
What to watch for
In its early stages glaucoma shows no symptoms, but later signs can include:
- Gradual loss of side (peripheral) vision
- Tunnel vision in advanced stages
- Halos or rainbow rings around lights
- Eye pain, redness, blurred vision or nausea — these can signal acute angle-closure glaucoma, a medical emergency. Seek help immediately.
Screening is quick and painless. We measure your eye pressure, examine your optic nerve and, where needed, test your field of vision. We recommend a comprehensive eye examination every two years from age 40 — more often if you're at risk. See our eye health screening overview for the full picture.
Treatment
While lost vision cannot be restored, treatment — prescription eye drops, laser or surgery — can slow or halt further damage. The earlier glaucoma is caught, the more sight is saved. That's why screening matters.
Glaucoma fact sheet
Download the practice's glaucoma fact sheet — a concise, printable guide to the condition, risk factors and why regular eye tests are essential.
A full eye examination checks for glaucoma and other silent eye conditions. Walk in — no appointment required.
Call 082 997 8385