Is Glaucoma Hereditary? Risk Factors, Treatment Options

Is Glaucoma Hereditary? Risk Factors, Treatment Options

• 03 Oct, 2024

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss if not managed properly. It is generally linked to increased pressure inside the eye, which affects the optic nerve. Many wonder if glaucoma is hereditary. Let us explore the genetic factors of glaucoma, its risk factors, and available glaucoma  treatment options.

Is Glaucoma Hereditary?

Glaucoma mostly runs in families, suggesting a strong genetic component. If your parents or siblings have glaucoma, your risk of developing the condition could be higher. Genetic mutations related to eye pressure and nerve health can be passed down, which increases susceptibility to the disease.

Although hereditary glaucoma is not the only reason why you might be developing this condition.. Your family history does play a very important role. However, it is not a clear indication that if someone has glaucoma, you will develop the condition. 

In most cases, if an individual has glaucoma in their bloodline, it becomes more common for them to develop the same. In such cases, often the cases of primary open-angle glaucoma are more likely than the other variant. 

Risk Factors Beyond Genetics

While genetics play a crucial role, other risk factors also contribute:

• Age: Age is a crucial factor that often decides if you are at risk of developing glaucoma. The most common age range that is highly susceptible to developing glaucoma is the range between 60 years and 70 years. However, this is certainly not the only age to develop glaucoma. 

• Unsolicited Consumption of Corticosteroids: If you are someone who consumes too much Corticosteroids, you may develop glaucoma. People who take corticosteroids in the form of eye drops are often more likely to develop glaucoma than others. 

• Eye Injury: One of the most common reasons why people develop glaucoma is eye injuries. Hence taking care of the same is crucial. Exposure to any kind of harrowing eye injury can lead to chances of developing glaucoma. Eye injuries often lead to high pressure in the eyes which can lead to breakout of the optic nerves. 

• Intraocular Pressure: The term intraocular pressure refers to having too much pressure in your optic nerves. This is often a common scientific reason for developing glaucoma. 

Symptoms of Glaucoma to Watch For

Early detection is key. Be aware of these symptoms:

• Gradual loss of peripheral vision
• Eye redness
• Severe eye pain
• Blurred vision
• Seeing halos around lights

Glaucoma Treatment Options Available

Glaucoma treatment focuses on reducing eye pressure to prevent damage to the optic nerve:

Some of the most common treatment modalities for glaucoma which have proven to be effective over the last few years are:

Laser Therapy 

Laser therapy is one of the most common options for glaucoma treatment and can be highly effective as well. Two types of laser therapy are usually highly popular. While Laser trabeculoplasty is often used to treat open-angle glaucoma, angle closure glaucoma is usually treated with laser iridotomy. 

Medication 

You may treat glaucoma with some kind of medication as well. However, medication is only applicable if the stage of the glaucoma is not very advanced. Usually, these are eye drops and can reduce fluid production and help with optimum drainage.

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)

This particular modality of treatment has become popular shortly and is highly effective. It is very less invasive and often helps you by minimizing the recovery time. 

Preventative Measures to be taken for Glaucoma

Taking preventative steps can help manage glaucoma risk:

• Regular eye exams, especially if you’re at high risk
• Protecting eyes from injuries
• Managing other health conditions like diabetes

Conclusion

While genetics can increase your risk for glaucoma, understanding and managing other risk factors can help maintain your eye health. Glaucoma is a common eye problem that can lead to complete blindness if you do not take early care of the same. It is always better to get in touch with professionals immediately if you notice any of the early signs. 

The right nutrition and proper optics can easily help you to get rid of the negative implications of glaucoma. Although genetics could be an important factor to consider, often it is not the only reason behind the development of glaucoma. Glaucoma Surgery often is the most effective method to deal with the side effects of glaucoma.

At Drishti Eye Centre, located on Mehrauli Gurgaon road near Kalyani hospital in Gurgaon, we provide comprehensive eye care. Our services include general consultations and specialized eye treatments in Gurgaon for Cataract, Refractive surgeries, Squint, and Glaucoma. Visit us to ensure your eyes are protected for years to come.