An eyecare boss at Specsavers stores has warned that regular eye tests are vital to prevent glaucoma - which is one of the leading causes of blindness.
The condition has caused 30,000 hospital referrals for those aged 40 to 60, the retailer said. John Loughran, a director for Specsavers on Tyneside, said: "Glaucoma is a common eye condition where the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain, becomes damaged. It’s usually caused by fluid building up in the front part of the eye, which increases pressure inside the eye.
"Our data shows that glaucoma can affect people of all ages. Although most will not experience any symptoms, glaucoma can lead to loss of vision if it's not detected and treated early. Vision lost to glaucoma cannot be recovered, but with early detection, careful monitoring and regular treatment, most people retain useful sight for life.
