The symptoms of glaucoma are not always obvious and often people wait too long to be tested. Being aware of the risk factors that may lead to glaucoma is important for early detection and intervention.
Glaucoma Risk Factors
- Age – As you get older your risk of glaucoma increases. It is important to be checked regularly from the age of 40 to 60 years of age.
- Eye Pressure – Eye pressure can vary quite considerably from person to person and variations in eye pressure from the norm can lead to an elevated risk of glaucoma. You can have your eye pressure tested at your next eye exam and our team of professionals will be able to tell you if you fall within a higher risk category.
- Genetics – Does someone in your family have glaucoma? If so you may be at a much greater risk of developing the eye condition too. The predisposition to develop glaucoma is quite often genetic so knowing your family’s history of eye conditions can be very helpful in determining your level of risk.
- Ethnicity – Your ethnic background can affect your risk of glaucoma. For example African Americans over the age of 40 are at a substantially greater risk of developing glaucoma. Different ethnicities are vulnerable to different kinds of glaucoma.
- Medical history and conditions – Conditions which increase eye pressure such as high blood pressure can increase the risk of developing this eye conditions.
- Overuse of eye treatments– Extended use of corticosteroid treatments such as eye drops can create a greater risk of developing glaucoma.
- Preexisting eye conditions – Certain eye injuries can increase eye pressure making the eye more susceptible to developing glaucoma.
Getting your eyes checked for the signs of glaucoma is the key to avoiding debilitating eye conditions in the future. Our expert team can assist and advise you on your risk of glaucoma and other eye conditions. Get in touch with us by calling (352) 237-8400 or by filling out this contact form to set up an appointment. We look forward to your visit!