Glaucoma and Driving: What should be borne in mind?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can lead to vision loss and blindness. It is caused by damage to the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain.

One of the potential complications of glaucoma is that it can affect a person's ability to drive safely.

Glaucoma can cause vision loss, particularly in the peripheral (side) vision, which is important for detecting other vehicles, pedestrians, and objects on the road.

It can also cause problems with depth perception and night vision, which are important for driving

'If you have glaucoma, it is important to let your eye doctor know if you drive. Your eye doctor can assess your visual abilities and determine whether it is safe for you to drive'

Your eye doctor may also recommend that you limit your driving to certain times of day, such as during daylight hours, or restrict your driving to certain types of roads or routes.

If you have severe glaucoma or significant vision loss, you may need to stop driving altogether. This can be a difficult decision, as driving is often an important part of daily life.

If you are no longer able to drive, there are other transportation options available, such as public transportation, ride-sharing services, or hiring a driver'

It is important to monitor your vision and keep up with regular eye exams if you have glaucoma. Early detection and treatment can help prevent or slow down vision loss and allow you to continue driving safely. If you are concerned about your ability to drive with glaucoma, talk to your eye doctor for guidance and support.