Many of us inherit traits from our family, like the color of our eyes or our height. However, it’s also possible to inherit a higher risk for certain health conditions. This includes conditions that affect your eyes.
Glaucoma can be hereditary, and knowing your family’s eye health history is an important step in caring for your own vision. Being aware of this connection empowers you to be proactive about your sight.
Family History & Your Glaucoma Risk
Your family’s health history offers clues about your own health—and your eyes are part of that story. If close relatives have glaucoma, your own risk might be higher. This makes knowing your family’s eye health background a useful tool for you and your doctor.
Does Glaucoma Run in the Family?
Glaucoma can indeed run in families, especially the most common form, which is called primary open-angle glaucoma. This type often has a genetic link, which means that the risk can be passed down from one generation to the next. That’s why sharing your family history is such a key part of a comprehensive eye exam.
Is Glaucoma from Your Mother or Father?
The genetic risk for glaucoma can come from either side of your family, so it’s important to consider both. It doesn’t matter if it’s your mother’s relatives or your father’s. A history on either side can contribute to your personal risk profile.
What It Means if Your Grandma Has It
If a close relative like a grandparent, parent, or sibling has glaucoma, it’s a good idea to schedule regular eye exams. You can mention your family history when you book your appointment. This information helps your eye doctor get a complete picture of your eye health and what to look for.
First Signs & Symptoms of Glaucoma
Many forms of glaucoma develop slowly, often without clear signs in the early stages. This is why people sometimes call it a “silent” condition—you might not notice anything is wrong. However, there are some early indicators you can look out for.
Early Symptoms to Watch For
Some people experience subtle changes that can be early signs of glaucoma. These include:
- Gradual loss of side vision
- Blurry vision
- Halos around lights
- Mild eye pain or headaches
Why Early Detection Matters
When glaucoma is identified early, you and your eye doctor can take steps to protect your sight and manage the condition effectively. Regular checkups are a key part of this process, as your optometrist can often spot changes in your eyes before you do. This allows them to act sooner rather than later.
What Happens at an Eye Exam With an Eye Doctor in Aurora
When you visit us for a comprehensive exam, we’ll perform a range of different tests, depending on your vision needs. For glaucoma, this may include checking the pressure inside your eye. We’ll also examine your optic nerve for signs of potential damage, and we may perform a visual field test to check your peripheral vision.
Other Causes & Risk Factors
Your risk for glaucoma can increase naturally as you get older, especially after age 40. Certain health conditions, like diabetes or high blood pressure, can also be a factor. This is why regular health and eye checkups are so valuable for your overall well-being.
Steps to Protect Your Vision
You can’t change your genetic risk, but you can take powerful steps to manage your eye health. Early detection and consistent follow-up care can make a meaningful difference in your long-term vision.
Regular appointments are the most effective way to monitor your eye health from year to year. If you have a family history of glaucoma, we can suggest a schedule for routine exams that will help protect your vision. At Envision Eye Care, we’re here to support you on your eye health journey. If you have concerns about glaucoma or it’s time for your next exam, reach out to our team. We’re ready to help you see clearly.
