If an individual has a family history of Glaucoma, they have a risk of developing this disease.
Have you been seeing blind patch spots in your vision for some time?
Or are you experiencing blurred vision, eye redness, and a bad headache?
Most importantly, do you have Glaucoma in your bloodline?
If so, you have much cause for concern. The question “Is glaucoma hereditary?” finds pertinence. This blog discusses the family risk factors of Glaucoma.
What Is Glaucoma?
So, what is Glaucoma? It is a serious eye condition that can lead to loss of vision. It involves damaging the optic nerve, which sends visual information from the eye to the brain.
The optic nerve is vital for good vision. It becomes vulnerable to hereditary Glaucoma. Moreover, high blood pressure damages the optic nerve. Glaucoma may develop at any age, but mostly, people in their 60s become vulnerable.
Hence, on discovering any of these primary and alarming signs with family history, you must immediately see a reputed eye specialist treating Glaucoma Beamount. Start your treatment immediately.
Understanding Genetic Risks
According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, around 4.22 million people in the USA have Glaucoma. The risk factors are serious. Hence, understanding the risk factors for Glaucoma may allow an early diagnosis. However, let’s try to understand the risk factors if Glaucoma is hereditary.
1. Genetic Factors
Multiple genetic mutations, including OPTN, MYOC, and TBK 1, are linked to glaucoma. These markers influence nerve damage in the eye.
The MYOC gene is associated with early-onset Glaucoma. On the other hand TBK1 gene is associated with normal-tension Glaucoma, and the OPTN gene is linked to optic nerve damage.
2. Glaucoma Running in Families
According to a study, both open-angle and closed-angle glaucoma patients may have a family history of the disease.
Moreover, having a first-degree relative with open-angle Glaucoma may increase risks up to 9 times. In addition, if you have a sibling with closed-angle Glaucoma, you have a higher chance of being affected by closed-angle Glaucoma (13%).
How To Prevent Glaucoma With History?
There is no way you can prevent Glaucoma. That’s the truth. However, if you have hereditary Glaucoma and are diagnosed early with treatment, you can slow down the progress of this development.
If you are aged and have a family history of Glaucoma, the doctor may recommend more examinations. You can take a few steps to reduce the risk of developing Glaucoma.
Regular Examination of the Eye
Individuals with a family history of Glaucoma must undergo eye examinations recommended by an eye care professional at least once a year.
Healthy Diet
In this condition of vulnerability, you must be selective with your food choices. For the health of your eyes, eat foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids and leafy green veggies.
Exercise
Exercise is one activity that can slow down the progression of Glaucoma. Moderate physical activities can also help regulate intraocular pressure.
Say No To Smoking And Alcohol
If you have a family history of Glaucoma, you have to shun smoking and alcohol to prevent optic nerve damage.
Health Monitoring health
You have to regularly see doctors to manage hypertension and diabetes to bring down health risks.
If you have a family history, you have to be concerned. See an Ophthalmologist immediately. On timely diagnosis, doctors may prescribe surgeries, laser therapy, and eye drops to slow the progression of Glaucoma.
