As a result of the current restrictions due to the global Covid-19 pandemic many medical procedures have been postponed indefinitely. This is to minimise infection rates and increase capacity for critical conditions.

Covid-19 precautions

People with glaucoma should adhere to the general guidelines:

  • Maintain social distancing
  • Wash your hands regularly
  • Wear a mask when being around other people
  • Ventilate rooms
  • Avoid gatherings

Outpatient care
If you are currently receiving outpatient care for glaucoma, the medical team will assess your need for urgent treatment. You are only likely to receive treatment if you’re deemed to be at very high risk of sight loss in the next few months. If your treatment is not regarded as urgent, any existing appointments you have will be deferred.

You should continue with your current treatment regime. If you notice any sudden change in your vision, please seek help immediately.

New patients
Unless you have urgent need for treatment due to a serious or worsening condition, any scheduled new patient appointment will be deferred. This is to ensure that all urgent cases can be treated quickly.

If you’re experiencing sudden loss of vision, pain or other concerning symptoms, it’s important to have an assessment. Your ophthalmologist will be able to advise by telephone and schedule a face-to-face appointment if necessary.

If you are awaiting surgery
Most glaucoma surgery is being deferred with safety paramount in mind. This doesn’t mean you treatment is being cancelled, it’s merely being delayed.

If you are at high risk of sight loss over the next few months or significant impairment of your daily life, then it’s likely your surgery will be deemed as urgent.

Whatever your situation it’s important to liaise with the team for advice about treatment and rescheduling.

Managing your glaucoma treatment at home

  • You should continue managing your glaucoma at home as prescribed by your ophthalmologist.
  • If you use eye drops to help manage your symptoms, it’s recommended that you regularly wash your hands to help reduce the risk of infection.

If you develop any of the following symptoms you should seek help immediately;

  • Eye pain, vomiting or nausea
  • Partial loss of vision
  • Flashes or floaters in your eyes
  • A sudden change to your vision, such as blind spots or blurriness.

This blog is contributed by Gurjeet Jutley.