HUNDREDS of people living in Dumbarton are at risk of having their vision stolen by a condition often dubbed the “silent thief of sight”.

Around 930 West Dumbartonshire residents are in danger of going blind from glaucoma - one of the largest causes of blindness in the world - due to its gradual onset. That is why this Glaucoma Awareness Week, June 17-23, Specsavers in Dumbarton is highlighting the importance of looking after our eyes.

Glaucoma usually occurs when naturally-occurring fluid inside the eye does not drain properly, leading to a build-up of pressure. This can then cause damage to the optic nerve and nerve fibres from the retina, in most cases without any symptoms. While the condition cannot be reversed, it can be managed – but early detection is key.

Robin Mitchell, optician at Specsavers in Dumbarton, said: “The good news is glaucoma can generally be treated effectively if detected early, and in most cases, daily eye drops are used.

“Many don’t realise there is anything wrong with their sight, so regular visits to the optician are essential.”

Robin says: ‘With the most common form of glaucoma, visual loss is initially very subtle, affecting mainly the peripheral vision rather than central, which can make it harder to notice. Most people are not even aware there is any visual loss because of the way the eyes’ visual fields overlap to compensate for one another.

‘Some forms of glaucoma are more rapid with a sudden painful build-up of pressure in the eye which produces blurred vision and haloes around lights, but they are less common.’

It is vitally important people attend regular check-ups at their optician to check for any signs. At your appointment they will they will test your eye pressure as high pressure is a common sign of glaucoma, and they’ll do a visual field test which can detect any subtle blind spots you may not be aware of, which can also be an indicator of the condition.

Karen Osborn Chief Executive of the International Glaucoma Association (IGA) says: ‘We regularly hear from people who have permanently lost sight to glaucoma because of late diagnosis. People are often angry and upset to learn that simple regular visits to their local high street optometrist could have detected the condition. The earlier treatment starts, the more likely that someone will retain useful sight for life, so it’s great that so many Specsavers stores are on board with Awareness Week.’

For those who already have glaucoma, digital retinal photography (DRP) is used to asses and keep check of damage to the optic nerve and nerve fibres from the retina from pressure build up.

Robin adds: ‘Our sight is so precious. We all make sure we visit our dentist every six months and a sight test every two years should also be on our to do lists. It could, quite literally, save your sight.’

Specsavers and the IGA recommends everyone should get an eye test once every two years or more often if advised by a health professional.

For further information or to book an appointment visit https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/dumbarton