Are You at Risk of Developing Glaucoma?

Glaucoma affects many people and leads to vision loss. It is a condition that damages the optic nerve and results in blindness. The optic nerve sends information from your eyes to your brain. Glaucoma does not have symptoms during its early development stages until it progresses and advances. For this reason, most people call it the silent thief of sight.

Glaucoma is the second top cause of blindness worldwide. Thus, identifying its risk factors is vital to help take the necessary steps to prevent it. Continue reading to learn if you are at risk of developing glaucoma.

Age 

Aging increases your risk for glaucoma. The Glaucoma Research Foundation found that individuals above 60 have a high risk of developing the condition. However, children and infants can also develop glaucoma. 

Routine eye exams are the best way to prevent and manage this condition. It will help with early detection and monitoring. Your eye doctor will measure the pressure inside your eye and examine your optic nerve. They will also perform various tests to check if you have glaucoma. If they diagnose it, they will create a treatment plan to help manage the disease and protect your vision from further loss.

High Intraocular Pressure 

Intraocular pressure (IOP) is the pressure within your eye. Your risk for myopia increases when your IOP becomes high. However, not every individual with increased intraocular pressure develops glaucoma. You can still get the condition with a normal IOP. Hence, it is best to get your eyes examined regularly to help detect and monitor glaucoma.

Family History

Research whether there are people in your family with glaucoma. You may have a higher risk of developing it if you find one. Considering this, get your eyes routinely examined to check your health and detect eye problems early for prompt treatment.

Ethnicity

Some ethnic groups have a high risk of developing glaucoma than others. The condition can affect Hispanics, African American, and people of Asian descent. Glaucoma also affects individuals of African descent. It can develop at an early age and cause more severe vision loss.

Routine eye exams are the best way to keep your eye health in check. Your eye doctor can help diagnose, treat, and manage the condition.

Medical Conditions

You can develop glaucoma if you have certain medical conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes. Additionally, eye surgery or severe eye injury can cause the development of glaucoma. It is vital to manage your medical conditions.

Healthcare providers encourage patients to eat a healthy and balanced diet, quit smoking, and exercise regularly. It will protect your eyes and general health. Protect your eyes from injury. Wear protective eyewear when working in hazardous environments or playing sports. Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes to prevent eye injury or infection.

Thin Corneas

The clear part of your eye is the cornea. Thin corneas increase the risk for glaucoma. Individuals with thin corneas can have a falsely low IOP measurement, making it difficult to detect glaucoma.

Steroid Use

Using steroids in the form of inhalers, pills, or drops for the long term can increase your risk for glaucoma. Hence, it is vital to use them as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Attend regular eye examinations to check your eye health.

For more about glaucoma, call Okaloosa Eye Care at our office in Crestview, Florida. Call (850) 608-0003 to book an appointment today.