Knowing the Risk Factors for Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a particularly risky disease for a number of reasons. First, it’s widespread. It affects about 3 million Americans and is the second-most common cause of blindness across the globe.

More problematically, a lot of people who have glaucoma don’t know it. The most common form of glaucoma — open-angle glaucoma — causes symptoms to creep in slowly. You might be losing peripheral vision without even realizing it.

That’s what makes regular eye exams so important. Here at our office on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City, Hilla Steinberg, MD, can screen you for glaucoma. She can also help you determine if you have a heightened risk for this blindness-causer. And if you do, she develops a plan to help you proactively protect your vision. 

Glaucoma risk factors

Before age 40, your risk of glaucoma is fairly low, no matter what. But by the time you reach your 40th birthday, your likelihood of contracting this eye disease starts climbing.

You’re particularly likely to develop glaucoma if you:

• Have a family health history of glaucoma
• Are Black, Hispanic, or Asian
• Regularly use steroids (including those prescribed by a doctor)
• Have ever traumatically injured your eye

Other health conditions also heighten your risk for glaucoma, including:

• Diabetes
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Heart disease

Anything that hinders your circulation can also increase your glaucoma risk level. 

Beyond all this, your eye unsurprisingly plays a role in your risk level. A thin optic nerve or cornea can make you more likely to get this eye disease. Dr. Steinberg thoroughly evaluates your eyes to see if any of their features suggest you should be more diligent in your glaucoma screenings. 

What to do if you’re in a high-risk category

If you have an increased risk for glaucoma, catching it early is key. If you do, Dr. Steinberg can apply treatment to slow the disease’s progression and protect your ability to see.

Dr. Steinberg and the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) recommend regular eye exams. An annual eye health check can help prevent vision loss from glaucoma. 

At your appointment, Dr. Steinberg leverages the latest technology to look for the warning signs of glaucoma. 

If she detects this eye condition, she will work with you to develop a plan to slow its progression. That plan may include medicated eye drops or laser treatment. 

Regular screenings allow you to manage your glaucoma risk and protect your vision over time. Call our office or book an online appointment to determine your risk or schedule an eye exam.