MY RELATIVE HAS GLAUCOMA

My relative has glaucoma, what does this mean for me?

Those having a direct relative (child, sibling, or parent) diagnosed with glaucoma have higher risk of getting affected by glaucoma – 1 in 4 members may develop glaucoma in their life time because in many cases glaucoma is an inherited (genetic) disease that is passed on within families. This group needs to undergo regular eye examinations at least 10 years earlier than the age of onset of glaucoma in their affected relative. With early detection of glaucoma it is possible to preventing vision loss.

If general population is considered 2-3% develop glaucoma in their lifetime. Onset is usually subtle as people may become aware only when their vision is worsening after a considerable amount of vision has been lost. Thus makes eye examination important in detecting early disease. Early detection of glaucoma is important because if treated at early age there is a greater chance of restoring lost vision but also can halt or slow further vision loss.

In order to know more about potentially blinding eye disease glaucoma

Some people have higher risk for glaucoma particularly

  • Who has a family history of glaucoma

  • Above the age of 40

  • Who are diabetic or has migraines issues.

  • Who have long or short sightedness

  • Take cortisone drugs (steroids)

  • Who had eye injury or eye surgery in the past

Research show that you are at a higher risk of getting affected if you have a family history of glaucoma

Those who have direct relative who is affected with glaucoma should:

  • It is advised to visit a health professional for a comprehensive eye examination which include an optic nerve check and it is recommended to have regular examinations.

  • It is advised that the other family members are at higher risk of getting affected by glaucoma and it is important for them to have regular eye examinations.

Common misconceptions

Myth: once you get your eye checked, even if there are members in your family diagnosed with glaucoma you will not develop glaucoma.

FALSE: it is important to get your eye checked regularly (every 2-3 years) that include optic nerve check.

Myth: I have been diagnosed with glaucoma having a damage which is irreversible thus there is no need of continuing the medication.

FALSE: Although glaucoma is life-long, many at times progressive condition and optic nerve damage from glaucoma is irreversible, further damage could be slowed down or even be stopped with proper damage.

Myth: glaucoma occurs only for elderly, you may be in need of eye checks after age 60.

FALSE:  Although there is a risk of developing glaucoma with increase in age, glaucoma may affect any person at any age. Glaucoma can affect even infants.

Myth: even though I have perfect vision, I cannot be affected by glaucoma.

FALSE: In majority of the cases glaucoma affects the peripheral vision first and may not get noticed.  Central vision may not be affected until later stages until when the damage is very severe and loss of vision has already occurred.

Myth:  No one in our family has diagnosed with glaucoma, so I am safe and is not in need of optic nerve check.

FALSE: Although people having a family history with glaucoma are at higher risk of developing glaucoma themselves, others are also at risk.