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Helen’s story

Helen had worn glasses for short-sightedness since the age of 10. During a regular eye check at her opticians in 2000, when she was 35, she underwent a field test, despite not having “high” eye pressure. The test revealed some loss of vision, and she was referred to a consultant ophthalmologist at the local hospital. Given her age, the specialists were uncertain whether it was glaucoma. To rule out any serious issues affecting the optic nerve, she underwent a head scan. Ultimately, the specialists decided to treat it as glaucoma, prescribing her eye drops to lower the pressure. She was diagnosed with “low pressure glaucoma” in her left eye only.

Helen

Glaucoma UK provides valuable information, and the materials are presented with large, clear print. I would encourage anyone with glaucoma to become part of this supportive community..

Glaucoma runs in my family – my grandparents had it and I think my grandpa lost his sight due to the disease. My parents were also diagnosed with glaucoma around the same time as I was. Once the most suitable eye drops were found for my glaucoma, I managed them well. Aside from some darkening of the surrounding skin and thickening of my eyelashes, I had no problems. On a side note, I do think that oval-shaped bottles are much easier to squeeze than round ones!

In January 2011, I had a trabeculectomy on my left eye and I was allowed to stop using eye drops once I had completed the post-op drops. This operation was a success. Soon after the procedure, I began using eye drops in my right eye as a preventative measure. Unfortunately, I started to lose my field of vision, and by 2024, I had glaucoma in both eyes. I contacted the DVLA to arrange a sight test, and after the field test with both eyes, I was declared fit to drive. However, my field of vision continued to worsen, and I had a trabeculectomy in my right eye in July 2024. This caused the pressure to drop too low, so I had bandage lenses (also known as therapeutic contact lenses) inserted to help the surgery site to heal, reducing fluid flow and raising the pressure.

Eventually, the pressure stabilised at a suitable pressure. The bleb in in my right eye is opaque, unlike the clear one in my left eye. This was a bit of a surprise, but I don’t mind so long as it serves its purpose. I am pleased to say that I no longer need to use eye drops. I attend regular check-ups to monitor my glaucoma and ensure there is no further loss of vision.

Shortly after my diagnosis, I joined Glaucoma UK as a member. I began receiving the Insight membership magazines, which had lots of interesting articles and stories. There were articles and stories of people of all ages living with glaucoma. This helped me realise I was not alone and although I haven’t felt the need to reach out to the charity for help, it’s reassuring to know that support is available if needed.

Glaucoma UK provides valuable information, and the materials are presented with large, clear print. I would encourage anyone with glaucoma to become part of this supportive community.

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