People are being reminded that the only way to detect the eye disease, glaucoma, is through regular eye tests.

According to the Irish College of Ophthalmologists (ICO), glaucoma is often referred to as the ‘silent thief of sight' because it is usually symptomless in its early stages and people are often unaware they have it until their sight has already been affected.

"With glaucoma, vision loss progresses at such a gradual rate that people affected by the condition are often unaware of it until their sight has already been compromised. It is crucial that people remember that once vision is lost to glaucoma, it cannot be restored.

"However, with early diagnosis and careful regular observation and treatment, damage can usually be kept to a minimum, and good vision can be enjoyed indefinitely. The test to detect the condition is non-invasive and gives an immediate result," explained eye surgeon and glaucoma specialist at the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital in Dublin, Ms Aoife Doyle.

She said that the importance of having regular eye exams to prevent glaucoma-related vision loss ‘cannot be over-estimated'.

"Often the early signs of glaucoma are picked up during a routine spectacle prescription eye check-up with an optometrist and a referral will be made for the individual to be seen by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) for a full comprehensive eye examination so a diagnosis can be made," Ms Doyle noted.

An estimated 3% of people over the age of 50 in Ireland have glaucoma and this figure is expected to increase significantly in the coming years.

"There are different types of glaucoma and some people are at greater risk and may need to see their eye doctor on a more frequent basis. People of African origin are more at risk of developing glaucoma and of developing it at a younger age. For this reason, regular comprehensive eye exams to catch symptoms early are essential," Ms Doyle pointed out.

The ICO recommends that all adults have a baseline, comprehensive dilated eye exam by the age of 40, as this is a time when early signs of the disease may start to show. People aged 60 and older are recommended to have a comprehensive eye exam every 12-24 months, or as directed by their GP, optometrist or eye doctor.

The ICO made its comments to coincide with World Glaucoma Awareness Week, which runs until March 18. For more information on the disease, click here