Thursday, 11 April 2013
A SPECIALIST doctor will give a talk today (Thursday) about the dangers of driving while suffering from glaucoma.
Consultant ophthalmologist and glaucoma specialist, Mr Saab Bhermi, will be spelling out the regulations when he addresses members of the local Glaucoma Support Group at its seminar today (Thursday).
Glaucoma is caused by a build-up of high pressure which damages a nerve at the back of the eye. It initially causes lack of peripheral vision – vital for road safety – but if left untreated can progress and eventually cause total blindness.
The condition affects approximately one in 50 people over the age of 40, rising to one in 10 over the age of 80. Southend University Hospital’s eye department currently sees more than 20,000 patients with glaucoma every year.
Mr Bhermi said: “It is very important to catch the condition early to prevent it getting any worse. Treatments range from eye drops to laser and surgery.”
Although most patients with glaucoma in only one eye have no requirement to inform the Driver Vehicle and Licensing Agency (DVLA) provided their other eye is healthy and they meet the visual standards for driving, those with both eyes affected must inform the agency or risk a fine up to £1,000.
Mr Bhermi said: “We know this is a topic which concerns many of our patients so the seminar seemed the ideal opportunity to discuss it in detail.”
Patients and their families will also hear a talk on glaucoma eye drops from a member of the International Glaucoma Association.
The event will take place from 4.30pm to 6.45pm at Southend Central Library.
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