The first World Glaucoma Day was celebrated on 8 March 2008. This year it will be celebrated on 12 March 2024.
World Glaucoma Day is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about Glaucoma, which is a leading cause of preventable blindness.
Glaucoma is a disease caused by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) inside the eye, resulting either from a malformation or malfunction of the eye drainage structures. An elevated IOP causes irreversible damage to the optic nerve and retina fibres resulting in a progressive loss of vision.
The optic nerve carries electrical signals from the retina to the brain. The eye constantly produces aqueous. The clear fluid that fills the anterior chamber (The space between the cornea and the iris).
The delicate balance between the production and drainage of aqueous determines the intraocular pressure. Most people’s IOP range between 8mmHq and 21mmHq. Some eyes can tolerate slightly higher pressure than others.
Signs and symptoms;
Sudden decrease of vision in one eye or both eyes
Extreme painful eye
Headaches
Nausea and vomiting
Glare and light sensitivity
Halo and a rainbow around lights
Because glaucoma does not cause symptoms in most cases, those who are 40 years and older should have an annual eye examination. Those with a family history of glaucoma are encouraged to check their eyes once a year.
The First line of defense against glaucoma is early detection. Specific eye drops are available to control the pressure. Surgery will be done when eye drops fail to lower the pressure satisfactorily.
To learn more, visit Bloemfontein Station Medical Centre opposite Bophelo House in Bloemfontein.
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