Who’s at Risk for Glaucoma? Know the Factors

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss, and its early stages often develop silently. Many people don’t realize they’re at risk until permanent vision changes have already begun. Because early detection makes all the difference, understanding your personal risk factors is essential. At Eye-Site of Boynton Beach, we provide diabetic eye exams in Boynton Beach to help identify glaucoma early and protect your long-term eye health.

Age: Risk Increases as You Get Older

People over the age of 60 have a significantly higher risk of developing glaucoma. Risk increases even more after age 70, making routine eye exams crucial for safeguarding your vision.

Family History of Glaucoma

If a parent, sibling, or grandparent has glaucoma, your risk increases dramatically. Because glaucoma often runs in families, it’s important to share your family history with your eye doctor.

Diabetes and Other Health Conditions

Diabetes is a major risk factor for developing glaucoma. High blood sugar can damage the optic nerve and increase eye pressure. This is why regular diabetic eye exams in Boynton Beach are so important - they help detect early changes before symptoms appear.

Other conditions that may increase your risk include:

• High blood pressure

• Heart disease

• Thin corneas

• Chronic inflammation

High Eye Pressure (Ocular Hypertension)

Elevated intraocular pressure is one of the strongest predictors of glaucoma. Even if you have no symptoms, high eye pressure can silently damage the optic nerve over time.

Race and Ethnicity

Certain groups face a higher risk:

• African Americans are more likely to develop glaucoma at younger ages.

• Hispanics and Latinos also have a higher risk, particularly after age 60.

• People of Asian descent may be more prone to angle-closure glaucoma.

If you fall into these categories, routine screenings become even more important.

Previous Eye Injuries

Trauma to the eye can disrupt the natural drainage system and lead to increased eye pressure. Even injuries from years ago can put you at greater risk today.

Long-Term Steroid Use

Whether taken orally, injected, or used as eye drops, steroids can increase the risk of glaucoma when used long-term. If you require steroid treatment, regular monitoring is essential.

Why Early Detection Matters

Glaucoma damage cannot be reversed - but it can be slowed or prevented with timely care. Routine eye exams, especially if you fall into a high-risk category, are your best defense. At Eye-Site of Boynton Beach, we use advanced diagnostic technology to detect glaucoma early and provide personalized glaucoma management in Boynton Beach.

Stay Ahead of Glaucoma with Eye-Site of Boynton Beach

Glaucoma doesn’t always come with warnings, which is why understanding your risk is so important. Whether you have diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, or simply haven’t had an exam in a while, staying proactive can protect your vision for years to come.

Whether you need a routine checkup, a diabetic eye exam, or expert glaucoma management, Eye-Site of Boynton Beach is here to help. Visit our office in Boynton Beach, Florida, or call (561) 738-0111 to book an appointment today.