Are You at Risk for Glaucoma?
While no one is immune to glaucoma, some people are at greater risk than others. It is important to know if you are at a greater risk of developing the condition. Since glaucoma typically doesn’t have symptoms in the early stages, you and your eye doctor can work together to catch the condition early. That way, your eye doctor can prevent it from progressing.
What are the biggest risk factors for developing Glaucoma?
Age and family history play a big role in developing this eye disease. It is much more prevalent in people who are over the age of 60. Younger people can get it as well, and it is even found in infants. However, your risk of developing glaucoma dramatically increases after the age of 60.
You are also much more likely to get it if a family member has it. Your doctor needs to know if a close family member has had the condition. He or she might schedule more frequent glaucoma tests to catch the condition quickly.
Your ethnicity also plays a big role in your risk of developing glaucoma. African Americans are at a higher risk of developing the condition, especially as they age. By the time they reach forty, they are at much higher risk than people with other ethnic backgrounds. They are also at a greater risk of glaucoma-causing permanent blindness. Fortunately, regular eye exams lower the risk of blindness from glaucoma.
What are some other risk factors?
If you have high blood pressure, you are more likely to develop glaucoma. With that in mind, do what you can to lower your blood pressure. Frequent exercise and alleviating stress can both help you lower your blood pressure.
Some diseases also increase the risk of developing glaucoma. If you have heart disease, diabetes, or hypothyroidism, you are at a higher risk. That is why it is so important that you disclose your medical history to your eye doctor.
Your vision can also be a risk factor. If you are nearsighted or farsighted, you don’t just have to wear glasses or contact lenses. You also need to get comprehensive eye exams regularly since you are at a higher risk.
In addition, people who suffer from migraines are more likely to get glaucoma. If you get migraines, let your eye doctor know so he or she can keep up with your eye pressure.
Early Detection is Key!
All of this information might be a little scary. There is a good chance that you have at least one risk factor, and as you likely know, there is no cure for glaucoma. There is a silver lining in knowing your risk factors, though. While it can’t be cured, your Shelton, Connecticut eye doctor can stop it from progressing. That is the key to maintaining your vision.
Keep regularly scheduled eye appointments so your doctor can check your eye pressure every year. This is the best way to take the power back from glaucoma. With early detection and a proper treatment plan, your doctor can save your vision so you can maintain a high quality of life. Contact Pinke Eye Center for your appointment today!
