What Are the Risk Factors for Glaucoma?

Senior Couple Relaxing On Sofa At Home Glaucoma is one among the leading causes of blindness. Often, this condition is caused by a high-pressure buildup of fluid around the eye. The increased pressure leads to progressive damage of the optic never. If left untreated, you risk losing your peripheral vision and your sight altogether.

Some of the common risk factors for the disease include:

Age

Individuals above 60 years old are at risk of developing glaucoma. As you age, the risk for the disease increases.

Race

African Americans are at a high risk of suffering from the disease compared to Caucasians. Asian individuals are also more likely to suffer from angle-closure glaucoma, while people of Japanese descent are at an increased risk of low-tension glaucoma. Elderly Latin Americans are also more prone to the disease.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions put one at a high risk of developing glaucoma, including heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. A patient with chronic hypertension that is left untreated can lose their vision because of glaucoma.

Family History

Having a family member with glaucoma is also a risk factor that could potentially lead to the development of the eye condition.

Corneal Thickness

The cornea is the front eye structure that gives a particular refract. This front part of the eye helps you to focus your vision. Thin eye cornea can increase eye pressure, which heightens the likelihood of getting glaucoma.

Corticosteroid Use

Prolonged corticosteroid use can also make you more prone to secondary glaucoma.

So, how can you reduce the risk of getting glaucoma? At Kirk Eye Center, we always advise our patients that the best way to lower the risks of glaucoma is by going for regular checkups. We strive to provide our patients with personalized eye care and ophthalmology services. Kirk Eye Center cares about your vision. For that reason, our experts are always dedicated to knowing you on a personal level to warrant that you get the best eye care experience possible. 

Book an appointment today and alleviate any worries you might be concerned about. It’s never too late to contact us. 

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