What increases the risk of Glaucoma?

What increases the risk of Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye disease that affects 2-3% of people over the age of 60. It is the second most common cause of blindness in the western world and the second leading cause of blindness worldwide,  after cataracts.

There may be no symptoms to glaucoma as it is often a silent disease slowly developing over time. It is often detected during a glasses assessment by a vigilant optometrist, or because a patient is aware of the risk and has chosen to have their eyes formally checked.

Early detection, through regular and complete eye exams, is the key to protecting your vision from damage caused by glaucoma.

Certain factors increase the chances of glaucoma developing including:

1. Family history. If glaucoma is a condition that runs in your family history then you are at a higher risk – be sure to get checkups every 4 years if aged between 40-49. If aged 50 to 59 years you should be tested every three years, and people over the age of 60 should be tested every two years.
2. Age – people over 60 are at a higher risk of glaucoma developing.
3. Medical conditions such as high blood pressure ,diabetes and high myopia can lead to glaucoma due to reduced  blood flow to the optic nerve.
4. Injuries to the eye area.

If you have a question or would like to book an appointment, please contact our friendly specialist team on 0800 AKL EYES or email to admin@aucklandeye.co.nz