Are you at High Risk for Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in America. If treated early, it is possible to maintain your vision. However, if you start exhibiting symptoms before getting diagnosed with glaucoma, you have most likely already done irreversible eye damage.

While anyone can develop glaucoma, there are certain groups of people that are at higher risk for the disease. The following groups of people may be at greater risk of glaucoma:

• Over age 60
  
• Family history of glaucoma
  
• African-American
  
• Latino
  
• Diabetes
  
• High blood pressure
  

It is a good idea for all people to go for regular eye screenings by age 50 in order to detect the development of eye disorders such as cataracts and glaucoma before they do permanent eye damage. If you fall into one of these high risk groups, it is essential to see your ophthalmologist for regular screenings. Your vision may depend on it.

Many people suffering from glaucoma develop high intraocular pressure. This is caused by a fluid build-up in the eyes. This pressure exerts force on the optic nerve, causing irreversible damage.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also an excellent way to reduce your risk of glaucoma. By eating right, getting regular exercise and rest, refraining from smoking, keeping your weight at healthy levels, and managing your blood pressure, you can seriously reduce your risk for this degenerative eye disease.