Glaucoma Causes, Risks and Prevention
January has been named Glaucoma Awareness Month. We’re joining the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Optometric Association to highlight the importance of getting routine eye exams.
Getting effective glaucoma treatments is critical to maintaining healthy vision, but during the early stages of this disease there is often a lack of obvious symptoms. As the number one cause of irreversible blindness in the United States, it is important to stop the onset of vision loss in the earliest stages.. For questions about glaucoma issues, individuals can contact Eye Care of Delaware.
Is Glaucoma Hereditary and Do You Have a Genetic Risk?
Glaucoma Awareness Month is the perfect time to address a common question – is glaucoma hereditary? Of course, it’s necessary for everyone to understand the risk of glaucoma and take precautions with periodic eye exams. Also, due to issues of heredity there are some groups that have higher risk factors than others.
A family history might indicate an increased risk of getting glaucoma. If glaucoma seems to “run in the family,” research suggests you have between four and nine times more risk than someone without a family history of the disease. Nonetheless, if your parents or other relatives have suffered from the condition, that certainly doesn’t mean that you too will develop glaucoma. Along with understanding the signs of glaucoma, paying attention to instances within your family can act as a reminder to get regular eye exams.
The type of glaucoma is also a factor to be conscious of. Open-angle glaucoma, the most common type, accounts for around 95% of all cases and is a hereditary condition.
People from African American, Hispanic and Asian backgrounds can all face high rates of glaucoma. In fact, a study found that African Americans experienced a disproportionate number of blinding diseases and would benefit from increased access to eye care.
What Are Other Causes of Glaucoma?
There are additional causes that can lead to the deterioration of your vision through the different types of glaucoma. Age is an important factor, with those over 60 facing an increased risk. However, it is still important for younger people to get eye exams as the condition can sometimes start earlier. For those over the age of 40, an eye exam every one-and-a-half to two years is recommended.
Additionally, long-term steroid use, diabetes, eye injuries and myopia are all risk factors for glaucoma.
Visit Us for Effective Glaucoma Treatment
Eye Care of Delaware provides high-quality diagnosis and treatment for glaucoma. If you need help contact us for an appointment. Call (302) 454-8800 or request help now.
