Castle in the loch

Dave’s not here

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Living with Glaucoma
These are answers to questions from a sufferer's perspective



A: Glaucoma is a disease in which the optic nerve is damaged, leading to progressive, irreversible loss of vision. 

A: Loss of peripheral vision. You find yourself banging your elbows, tripping over things at your feet. Try this Amsler Grid (large version). This is my left and right eye. Cover one eye, then focus on the dot in the center. Can you see all corners and sides of the grid? Don't forget to test both eyes. My left eye is considerably worse than my right.Amsler Grid If you have a telescope you will notice that you can't see the whole image through the lens and likely it will be worse with one eye. Spot lights and lasers such as car brake lights will have refractive patterns or haloes around them. Distant objects such as the moon and stars may appear doubled. You may suffer uncontrollable panic attacks as your brain becomes confused - if this happens, close your eyes and hold on to something until the feeling goes away. Avoid large areas that are predominantly lit by fluorescent lighting such as stores.

A: Possibly. If you are aware of your limitations and adjust accordingly. Scan left and right continuously as you drive. Choose your trips carefully and try not to change lanes. Check at least twice before pulling out and wait if you are not sure. Look at the gap between your vehicle and others around you as you cannot rely on your 3D vision. Always travel by the same route if possible. Avoid travelling in unfamiliar places. Let others drive if you are not alone. Give yourself plenty of time to make maneuvers and always check vehicles close by. Select a vehicle which will help such as the Mercedes ML320 which has sensors all around for people and vehicles and also has adaptive distance control for cruising. Do NOT drive at night except in emergency.

A: No, it is permanent. But there is hope with upcoming stem cell research.
A: The Glaucoma Research Foundation. Also, check out the new FAQ.