What Increases the Risk of Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye condition that is both silent and progressive, often earning it the moniker "the silent thief of sight." An estimated 76 million people will suffer from this condition globally by 2024, and New Zealand is no exception. While early detection can slow its progression, many remain unaware of the risk factors for glaucoma
 

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is not a single disease but rather a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, a crucial component in transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. The damage is commonly associated with an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). If left untreated, glaucoma may lead to irreversible vision loss and even blindness.

There are various types of glaucoma, with the primary categories being:

• Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): The most common form, it develops slowly and often without noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred.
• Angle-Closure Glaucoma (ACG): This is less common but more severe, as the rise in eye pressure occurs suddenly and requires immediate medical intervention.

Understanding the glaucoma risk factors is crucial since early intervention can mitigate long-term damage.
 

Who is at Risk of Glaucoma?

Glaucoma affects individuals from all walks of life. However, some groups are particularly vulnerable due to certain genetic, health, and environmental factors. Below, we outline the key risk categories.
 

1. Family History – Is Glaucoma Hereditary?

One of the strongest indicators of glaucoma risk is family history. If you have a close relative—such as a parent or sibling—diagnosed with glaucoma, your risk increases significantly. Studies reveal that family history elevates the likelihood of developing the disease by a factor of four to nine times.

This hereditary connection makes it vital for individuals with a family history of glaucoma to attend routine eye exams. NVISION Eyecare® in Auckland advises at-risk individuals to visit an optometrist annually.
 

2. Age

Age is a natural risk escalator for glaucoma. Those over the age of 40 should begin regular screenings, as primary open-angle glaucoma becomes increasingly prevalent in middle age. For people over 60, the risk further multiplies and is highest in older populations. Early detection through comprehensive eye exams is vital for this age group.
 

3. Ethnicity

Ethnicity also factors into glaucoma risk:

• People of African or Afro-Caribbean descent are significantly more likely to develop glaucoma at a younger age, with higher incidences of optic nerve damage.
• People of Asian descent have a predisposition to angle-closure glaucoma.
• Caucasians are at a lower risk but are still susceptible, particularly in older age.

These genetic predispositions further affirm why understanding is glaucoma hereditary matters.

4. Existing Medical Conditions

Several medical conditions can exacerbate vulnerability to glaucoma:

• Diabetes: Studies suggest that diabetics are twice as likely to develop glaucoma. The exact connections remain under investigation, but elevated blood sugar levels could contribute to increased eye pressure.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): This can place undue stress on the delicate blood vessels within the eye.
• Previous Eye Injuries or Surgeries: Trauma to the eye may disrupt the normal flow of fluid, increasing intraocular pressure.

5. Elevated Eye Pressure or Thin Corneas

While elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a primary culprit in most glaucoma cases, individuals with thin corneas (the clear front layer of the eye) are also predisposed. Thin corneas reduce the cushioning effect within the eye, making the optic nerve more vulnerable.
 

6. Prolonged Corticosteroid Use

Long-term use of corticosteroid medications—either oral or topical, including eye drops—may increase pressure within the eye, heightening glaucoma risk. Patients using these medications should consult an optometrist for regular monitoring.

Common Glaucoma Symptoms to Watch For

While glaucoma may develop silently, certain signs should prompt immediate attention:

• Peripheral Vision Loss: Often one of the earliest indications of glaucoma.
• Halos Around Lights or Blurred Vision
• Eye Pain or Redness (specific to angle-closure glaucoma)
• Nausea or Vomiting (rare but can occur in sudden cases of angle-closure glaucoma)

Since symptoms often emerge only when the condition has advanced significantly, regular eye exams should not be neglected.

The Role of Eye Exams in Detecting Glaucoma

Early detection is critical in mitigating glaucoma-related vision loss. Comprehensive eye checks assess optic nerve health, measure eye pressure, and evaluate peripheral vision—all of which play a role in diagnosing glaucoma.

At NVISION Eyecare® in Auckland, you’ll find advanced diagnostic tools to detect early signs of eye problems, including glaucoma. While the clinic does not treat glaucoma, their capable team will refer you to specialists for further care if needed.
 

Tips to Lower Your Risk of Glaucoma

While some risk factors, such as age or family history, cannot be controlled, certain lifestyle adjustments can help reduce risk:

• Exercise Regularly: Activities like walking can lower intraocular pressure.
• Eye Protection: Wear protective eyewear to prevent trauma during sports or while working with machinery.
• Balanced Diet: Include leafy greens and nutrient-rich foods to promote overall eye health.
• Manage Medical Conditions: Controlling conditions like diabetes or hypertension can support ocular health.

These preventative measures, combined with routine exams, form a strong defense.
 

What NVISION Eyecare® Can Offer You

If you’re concerned about any glaucoma symptoms or suspect you may have certain glaucoma risk factors, NVISION Eyecare® in Auckland can help assess your eye health. Their professional and friendly team is equipped to provide thorough eye exams tailored to your individual needs, ensuring peace of mind for you and your family.

Schedule your routine eye exam today, and take the first step in safeguarding your vision!