Risk Factors for Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that affects the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss if not detected and treated early. Often referred to as the "silent thief of sight," glaucoma typically develops without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred. That's why understanding the risk factors and scheduling regular eye exams are essential steps in protecting your eye health.
 

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is essential for sending visual information from the eye to the brain. The most common form, open-angle glaucoma, usually develops gradually over time and can go unnoticed in its early stages. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause permanent blindness, making early detection critical.
 

Why Regular Eye Exams Matter

Because glaucoma often has no early symptoms, regular eye exams are the most effective way to catch it before it advances. During an eye exam, your eye doctor will measure your eye pressure, assess your optic nerve, and check your peripheral vision—all of which help in identifying glaucoma early. By catching glaucoma in its early stages, we can begin treatments to manage it and preserve your vision.
 

Key Risk Factors for Glaucoma

While anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors can increase the likelihood of being affected by the condition. Here are some of the most common risk factors:
 

• Age: Glaucoma risk increases significantly with age. People over 60, or over 40 for certain populations, should be especially vigilant about scheduling eye exams.

• Family History: If you have a close relative with glaucoma, your risk is higher. A family history of glaucoma can indicate a genetic predisposition to the disease, making regular screenings even more crucial.

• Ethnic Background: People of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent are at a higher risk for glaucoma. African Americans, in particular, are more likely to develop glaucoma at an earlier age and experience more severe vision loss from it.

• Increased Eye Pressure (Intraocular Pressure): Elevated pressure inside the eye, or intraocular pressure, is a significant risk factor for glaucoma. While not everyone with high eye pressure will develop glaucoma, controlling it can help reduce the risk.

• Thin Corneas: A thinner corneal thickness is associated with an increased risk of glaucoma. The cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, can affect pressure readings and may indicate a need for additional monitoring.

• Medical Conditions: Certain health issues, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease, can increase your risk of glaucoma. Conditions that affect blood flow can contribute to optic nerve damage, leading to glaucoma.

• Past Eye Injuries or Conditions: Injuries to the eye, as well as conditions like severe myopia (nearsightedness) and chronic eye inflammation, can increase the risk of glaucoma. Even injuries from years ago can have lasting effects on eye health.

• Use of Steroid Medications: Long-term use of corticosteroid medications, particularly eye drops, can raise intraocular pressure and increase the risk of glaucoma. If you rely on steroid medications, regular eye check-ups are recommended.
   

Protect Your Vision with Early Detection at Dau Family Eye Care

While glaucoma cannot be cured, early detection and treatment can slow its progression and preserve vision. Treatment options often include prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser therapy, or surgery, depending on the type and severity of the glaucoma. If you are at higher risk, it’s important to make regular eye exams part of your routine healthcare. At Dau Family Eye Care, we provide comprehensive eye exams and are committed to helping our patients protect their vision.
 

To learn more about your glaucoma risk or to schedule an exam, contact Dau Family Eye Care to preserve your vision for years to come. Visit our office in St. John’s, Florida, or call (904) 713-2020 to book an appointment today.