Who Is Most at Risk for Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of permanent vision loss, and it often develops without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Many people do not realize they have it until vision changes have already occurred. At Two Rivers Eye Care in New Braunfels, we use advanced eye health technology, including OCT imaging and retinal photos, to help monitor changes in the eye and detect concerns as early as possible.

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which sends visual information from the eye to the brain. This damage is often linked to elevated eye pressure, but glaucoma can also occur when eye pressure appears normal.

Because glaucoma usually affects peripheral vision first, many people do not notice symptoms right away. Regular eye exams give our eye doctor the opportunity to check eye pressure, evaluate the optic nerve, and look for early warning signs.

Age and Glaucoma Risk

Your risk of glaucoma increases as you get older. Adults over age 40 should be more aware of their eye health, especially if they have other risk factors. For patients over 60, routine eye exams become even more important because the risk continues to rise with age.

Even if your vision seems clear, glaucoma can still be developing quietly. Early detection allows your eye doctor to monitor changes and recommend treatment before significant vision loss occurs.

Family History of Glaucoma

Glaucoma can run in families. If a parent, sibling, or close relative has been diagnosed with glaucoma, your chances of developing it may be higher. Be sure to share your family eye health history during your exam so your eye doctor can better understand your risk.

Health Conditions That May Increase Risk

Certain medical conditions can also make glaucoma more likely. These include diabetes, high blood pressure, poor circulation, and a history of eye injury. Long-term steroid use may also increase eye pressure in some patients.

You may be at higher risk for glaucoma if you have:

• A family history of glaucoma
• Diabetes or high blood pressure
• Previous eye trauma or eye surgery
• Very high nearsightedness
• Thin corneas
• Elevated eye pressure
• Are over age 40, especially over age 60

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Glaucoma damage cannot be reversed, but early diagnosis can help protect your remaining vision. During a comprehensive eye exam, our eye doctor can measure eye pressure, evaluate your optic nerve, and use imaging technology to track subtle changes over time.

At Two Rivers Eye Care, OCT imaging gives our doctor a detailed view of the back of the eye, while retinal photos help us monitor eye health from one visit to the next. These tools are especially helpful for patients who are at risk for glaucoma or other eye diseases.

Do Not Wait for Symptoms

Glaucoma is often called the silent thief of sight because symptoms may not appear until vision loss is more advanced. If you have risk factors, the best step you can take is to stay consistent with routine eye exams.

Contact Two Rivers Eye Care to schedule an eye exam and discuss your glaucoma risk. Visit our office at in New Braunfels, TX, or call (830) 620-6005 to book an appointment today.