Glaucoma Risk Factors

Everyone is at risk for Glaucoma, however there are a number of factors that by themselves can predispose you to developing Glaucoma, and others that when combined can predispose you to increased risk (http://www.glaucoma.com/learn/are_you_at_risk.html).

High Intraocular Pressure

If you have a high Intraocular Pressure (IOP) you are considered to be at risk for developing Glaucoma.

Age

The incidence of Glaucoma increases with age and becomes much more frequent after the age of 40. In fact you are six times more likely to get Glaucoma if you are over 60 years of age-even if you have no other family or medical history that is significant.

Race

African-Americans have certain genetic factors that cause a higher likelihood of developing Glaucoma. In fact they have a six to eight fold increase in risk for Glaucoma. Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in African-Americans. Asians appear to have higher risk for developing Narrow Angle Glaucoma. In addition, Hispanics over the age of 60 seem to be at increased risk.

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Myopia

Some patients who are nearsighted may have anatomical features that can increase the risk of Glaucoma.

Hypertension or High Blood Pressure

If you are taking medication for high blood pressure you may be at greater risk for Glaucoma due to the lowering of the blood pressure within the optic nerve.

Diabetes

If you are being treated for diabetes you are considered to be at greater risk for Glaucoma due to the general circulation problems associated with diabetes.

 Family History

If anyone in your family has Glaucoma, this is a very significant risk factor. If any other family members have been diagnosed with Glaucoma, your risk of developing Glaucoma increases four to nine fold over the general population. This is particularly true for siblings of Glaucoma patients have a 5-fold increase in risk for developing Glaucoma.

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In addition to these factors, if you have had trauma to your eyes (i.e. a sports injury or car accident) or if you have been treated for Asthma for long periods of time with steroid inhalers, you too may have an increased risk for Glaucoma.

Glaucoma is a very complex eye disease, and not simply an elevated Intraocular Pressure (IOP). Nonetheless, when detected early it can be successfully treated. Center for Sight and it’s staff provide the full scope of advanced technology diagnostic testing and treatment, as well as taking the time necessary to give each patient the personal education needed to fully understand their condition and get the best possible outcomes for their patients.

If you or a family member or friend have not had a recent Glaucoma screening or examination for Glaucoma, please take a moment to request an appointment by calling Center for Sight in Fall River, Massachusetts at 508.677.0041 or Woonsocket, Rhode Island at 401.769.6323.

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Center for Sight is conveniently located for patients in need of diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma in Massachusetts and Rhode Island and from Attleboro, Fairhaven, Fall River, Franklin, Mansfield, Marion, Mattapoisett, Medfield, Milford, New Bedford, North Attleboro, North Dartmouth, Norton, Oxford, Rehobeth, Somerset, Swansea, Taunton, Walpole, Whitinsville, Woonsocket, Providence, Smithfield, Westport, Lakeville, Dighton, Little Compton, and Tiverton.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma Risk Factors

Types of Glaucoma

Glaucoma Diagnostic Testing

Treatment of Glaucoma