Sight Loss due to Undiagnosed Glaucoma
Although glaucoma is fairly common, it can lead to complete sight loss if undiagnosed or untreated.
Glaucoma is a condition of the eye which is found more frequently in older people. Increased pressure within the body of the eye - perhaps due to poor fluid drainage - can affect the optic nerve that carries signals from the retina to the brain where those signals are interpreted to produce the images we experience as sight.
As the pressure on the optic nerve increases, this can lead to areas of sight loss. If left untreated, glaucoma can eventually lead to complete sight loss.
What are the symptoms of glaucoma?
Glaucoma usually develops slowly. This is known as Primary Open Angle Glaucoma. Symptoms may not be apparent initially. As time passes, however, areas of the peripheral (outer) field of vision will start to disappear. Eventually the patient may be left with a very narrow field of vision or complete sight loss.
Occasionally someone will develop glaucoma suddenly. This is referred to as Acute Closed Angle Glaucoma. In this situation, symptoms might include severe sudden eye pain, blurred vision and red eyes. The person may also experience headaches along with nausea and vomiting.
Treating Glaucoma
Primary Open Angle Glaucoma
Primary open angle glaucoma can be treated in a number of ways depending on the severity of the condition and how your eye responds to treatment:
- with eye drops may be necessary as a permanent treatment to reduce the pressure in the eye
- in some cases laser treatment may be required to help the eye to drain more effectively
- where the above treatments are not effective, surgery may be used to create a new drainage channel to reduce pressure in the eye
Treatment of glaucoma will not restore existing sight loss but may prevent further loss of vision. Prompt diagnosis is, therefore, key to the best outcome for the patient.
Acute Closed Angle Glaucoma
Where the patient is suffering from acute closed angle glaucoma, urgent treatment will be required, probably with an injection and eye drops to reduce pressure in the eye quickly. Laser surgery is also likely to be needed to assist the drainage of fluid from the eyes. Prompt treatment can lead to a good recovery of sight but a delay in treatment can lead to permanent loss of sight.
Diagnosing Glaucoma
Glaucoma may initially be suspected by a GP or optician. This concern should lead to a referral to an ophthalmologist who will carry out further tests of the eye, your field of vision and the pressure in the eyes.
A failure to make the appropriate referral will delay both diagnosis and treatment.
Medical Negligence
If early symptoms of glaucoma are not identified leading to a delayed diagnosis and treatment, and poor long-term outcome, you may be able to make a claim for compensation.
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