Collaborative Approach to Glaucoma Care

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) has published a policy statement emphasising the transformative potential of optometry in glaucoma care. The AOP advocates for a collaborative approach, highlighting that leveraging the optometric workforce can enhance glaucoma care delivery in England and potentially save the NHS £90 million annually by 2030.

The full policy statement, available on the AOP website, outlines the current financial burden of glaucoma on the NHS, which exceeds £520 million annually. It calls for a national strategy to commission glaucoma care within optometry, aiming to eliminate regional disparities in patient care and ensure optimal efficiency and value for money.

Glaucoma Burden

Currently, an estimated 1.39 million people in the UK live with ocular hypertension (OHT), and an additional 708,000 have glaucoma. This condition accounts for approximately 20% of outpatient appointments.

Understanding Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a prevalent eye condition characterised by damage to the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure from fluid buildup in the eye. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial as glaucoma can lead to vision loss if untreated. It predominantly affects older adults but can occur at any age.

Types of Glaucoma

• Open-Angle Glaucoma: Develops slowly due to gradual clogging of eye drainage channels.
• Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Rare, caused by sudden blockage of eye drainage, rapidly increasing eye pressure.
• Secondary Glaucoma: Results from another eye condition, such as uveitis.
• Childhood Glaucoma: Rare, present from birth due to eye abnormalities.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

Initially, glaucoma often has no symptoms and may only be detected during routine eye exams. Over time, it affects peripheral vision. Symptoms, if present, can include:

• Blurred vision
• Intense eye pain (in acute cases)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Red eye
• Headache
• Eye tenderness
• Seeing rings around lights

How Lesley Cree Opticians Can Help

If you have concerns about your vision, book an appointment with Lesley Cree Opticians. Early diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma are crucial to prevent vision loss. You can book an appointment by calling  0115 933 2999 or visit our practice to meet our team. You can also book online by clicking here.

At Lesley Cree Opticians, we utilise the advanced Optos Monaco laser eye scanner, which combines an OCT scan with an ultra-wide retinal image (Optomap). The Optomap captures over 80% of the retina in one panoramic image, providing detailed views of both the central and peripheral retina, enabling earlier detection of retinal abnormalities compared to traditional methods.

If you experience sudden glaucoma symptoms, seek immediate medical attention at an eye casualty unit or A&E, as this is a medical emergency requiring prompt treatment.