Glaucoma simulation images unveiled
This World Glaucoma Week (8-14 March), Glaucoma UK has unveiled series of glaucoma simulation images to raise awareness of how the condition can affect vision and how it may be experienced.
“In many cases, damage to the optic nerve is associated with raised pressure inside the eye; most types of glaucoma develop gradually so symptoms may not be noticed until significant vision has already been lost”, stated the charity.
Glaucoma UK developed the images in collaboration with researchers at City St George’s, University of London, drawing on research from the Crabb Lab.
Their work shows that glaucoma is not typically experienced as a ‘black tunnel’ or as large dark patches, as is often seen in stock imagery. Instead, “many people describe blurry, misty or missing patches, especially in the early stages – sometimes only detectable when one eye is closed”, said the charity.
Research has shown that the brain plays an active role in filling in the gaps, especially when both eyes are open. This masks the early signs of peripheral vision loss.
The simulations illustrate:
- Unaffected vision: the scene appears clear. Any background blur reflects ordinary depth of field
- Developing glaucoma: subtle losses of edge detail. People may not notice missing objects or partial scene information because the brain attempts to compensate
- Advanced glaucoma: major central areas may still appear clear, while significant peripheral vision is lost. If untreated, central vision can eventually be affected too
“These variations highlight why people often do not realise they have glaucoma until the disease is advanced,” said Glaucoma UK.
Rachel Nunn, head of communications of Glaucoma UK, said: “We’re grateful to the researchers at City St George’s, University of London, for collaborating with us to develop these simulation images. This work is vital, as people’s experiences of glaucoma are highly subjective and our aim was to create images that are as accurate and representative as possible.
“We welcome opportunities to work with professionals and organisations to raise awareness of glaucoma through these simulation images, and we’re ready to support by providing any assets they may need.”