Glaucoma occurs when fluid builds up in the eye and increases pressure. If the disease is treated early using laser eye surgery and other procedures, the risk of vision impairment associated with glaucoma can largely be avoided. Here are some factors you should know about that increase the chance of developing glaucoma:
Ethnicity
- Although glaucoma affects many different people from all walks of life, some races are more susceptible to the disease than others. African Americans are much more likely to get the disease than people of European descent and are also more likely to develop glaucoma earlier in life, as compared with other ethnic groups. Asians and Latinos are also at high risk for developing certain types of glaucoma.
Diabetes
- People with diabetes are at a high risk for developing glaucoma, since high blood sugar can damage the eyes and cause fluid to build up. Compared with the general population, diabetics are much more likely to develop glaucoma. Diabetics should schedule regular eye exams with their eye doctors in order to prevent serious medical conditions, such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, from developing.
Age
- As people age, their likelihood of developing eye problems increases. Generally, people who are 60 and over are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma.
Genetics
- Like many medical conditions, glaucoma can be passed on through genes. Individuals who have a family history of glaucoma are more likely to develop the disease when compared with the general population. If someone in your immediate family has been diagnosed with glaucoma and you have other risk factors for this disease, schedule a wellness exam with your eye doctor.
As with any other health concern, the best way of preventing or treating glaucoma is to visit an experienced eye doctor early for screening. To learn more about glaucoma treatment and vision correction procedures such as LASIK, visit Boston Laser on the web or call us at (617) 566-0062.
