What Could Increase Your Risk for Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness, affecting millions of people worldwide. While almost anyone can develop glaucoma, certain factors can elevate your risk — like some underlying health conditions, age, and family history. At Texas State Optical Bandera, optometric glaucoma specialist Dr. Victoria Perez provides comprehensive eye care, including screenings and treatment for glaucoma. Understanding the risk factors that contribute to this eye condition can help you take proactive steps to protect your vision.

What causes glaucoma?

All types of glaucoma are caused by the deterioration of the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. Most commonly, this deterioration is due to increased intraocular pressure caused by problems with fluid drainage in the eye. In normally functioning eyes, fluid drains efficiently through a tissue called the trabecular meshwork, located between the iris and cornea. If this drainage system becomes obstructed or slows down, fluid builds up, increasing pressure within the eye. This pressure damages the optic nerve, leading to vision loss.

What are risk factors for glaucoma?

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing glaucoma, with age being one of the most significant. Men and women over 60 years old are at a higher risk, and this risk continues to grow with age. Family history of glaucoma is another important factor, as glaucoma tends to run in families, indicating a genetic predisposition to the condition. This is one of the reasons that regular eye exams are critical, especially for those with a close relative who has been diagnosed with glaucoma. Additional factors that can raise your risk of developing glaucoma include certain medical conditions, such as:

• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Heart disease

These conditions can affect blood flow to the optic nerve, which may contribute to glaucoma.

Can an eye injury increase glaucoma risk?

Certain pre-existing eye conditions may also heighten your risk for glaucoma. High intraocular pressure, which occurs when the fluid inside the eye doesn't drain properly, is one of the most significant risk factors for glaucoma. Additionally, if you have thin corneas or severe nearsightedness (myopia), your risk of glaucoma may be higher. Eye injuries, whether from trauma or surgery, can also increase intraocular pressure or damage the eye's drainage system, potentially leading to glaucoma.

Can race influence glaucoma risk?

Glaucoma affects people of all backgrounds, but research shows that certain racial and ethnic groups may have a higher risk. African Americans, Asians, and Hispanics are generally more likely to develop glaucoma compared to other populations. African Americans, in particular, are at greater risk of developing open-angle glaucoma, which is the most common form of the disease. For these groups, it is especially important to get regular eye exams, as early detection and treatment can prevent or slow down vision loss associated with glaucoma.

How do medications impact glaucoma risk?

Long-term use of corticosteroid medications, including corticosteroid eye drops, can increase your risk of developing glaucoma by affecting fluid drainage in the eye. It's important to talk with your doctor if you've been prescribed these medications long-term so they can monitor your eye health closely.

Does smoking increase glaucoma risk?

Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, may contribute to higher intraocular pressure and overall poor eye health. Living a healthy lifestyle by maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing chronic health conditions can help lower your overall risk of developing glaucoma.

Protect your vision with glaucoma screenings and glaucoma management in San Antonio, TX

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. Understanding your risk factors and scheduling regular eye exams are essential for early detection and management of your symptoms. Optometric glaucoma specialist Dr. Victoria Perez at Texas State Optical Bandera is committed to helping patients in San Antonio, TX protect their vision with advanced diagnostic tools and personalized management plans for glaucoma. Call our friendly team today to schedule your glaucoma screening, and get the peace of mind about long-term eye health that you deserve.