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Rosemary Shrager, 69, is a woman of many talents. She is a chef, TV presenter, and best known for being a no-nonsense teacher on the reality television programme Ladette to Lady, and as a judge on Soapstar Superchef. She also made an appearance on the popular reality TV series I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here. The star reveals a family condition which could derail her career and as such has to be extra vigilant. What is it?

TV chef, Rosemary Shrager admits she is terrified about going blind after revealing glaucoma runs in her family.

Rosemary has revealed she is “extremely worried” about losing her sight after several close family members went blind due to glaucoma.

The TV star is all too familiar with the risks of sight loss associated with glaucoma more than most and gets regular checks after some of her relatives lost their sight as a result of the condition, a prospect she says is terrifying.

“There is a history of glaucoma in my family,” she said.

“My father, sister, grandmother and two aunties all had it, and as it is often hereditary it is a terrifying thought that I could get it too.”

Glaucoma is a common eye condition where the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain, becomes damaged.

It’s usually caused by fluid building up in the front part of the eye, which increases pressure inside the eye.

Glaucoma can lead to loss of vision if it’s not diagnosed and treated early.

It can affect people of all ages but is most common in adults in their 70s and 80s.

Symptoms to spot

Glaucoma does not usually cause any symptoms to begin with, said the NHS.

The health site continued: “It tends to develop slowly over many years and affects the edges of your vision (peripheral vision) first.

“For this reason, many people do not realise they have glaucoma, and it’s often only picked up during a routine eye test.

“If you do notice any symptoms, they might include blurred vision, or seeing rainbow-coloured circles around bright lights.

“Both eyes are usually affected, although it may be worse in one eye.”

Occasionally, glaucoma can develop suddenly and cause:

• Intense eye pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• A red eye
• A headache
• Tenderness around the eyes
• Seeing rings around lights
• Blurred vision

“As a chef my work is my sight – I couldn’t do what I do without it,” Rosemary said.

“Cooking is my livelihood so it is so important that I do all I can to look after myself to ensure I can carry on.

“I urge everyone to make getting their eyes tested a priority.

“Some people think they don’t have to go to the opticians as they think their sight is fine, but they check for so much more than just your vision. It is the most important thing.”

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