Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of vision loss, and many people wonder if it runs in families. Knowing your risk can help you determine the best approach for early detection and glaucoma treatment in Madison, protecting your sight and slowing disease progression.
In this blog, we’ll explore whether glaucoma is hereditary, the genetic factors involved, and how regular eye care can help manage your risk.
Is glaucoma genetic?
Some types of glaucoma have a stronger hereditary component than others. For example, primary open-angle glaucoma, the most common form, often runs in families. Studies show that if someone in your immediate family has glaucoma, your risk is about four to nine times higher than that of someone without a family history of glaucoma1. Genetics can influence key factors such as eye pressure, the health of the optic nerve, and how your eyes respond to stress or injury.
Other forms of glaucoma, like angle-closure glaucoma or congenital glaucoma, may also have genetic links, though they are less common. Researchers continue to study the specific genes involved, which may one day allow for earlier identification of high-risk individuals. Understanding your family history and sharing it with your eye doctor can help guide monitoring and preventive care.
Other risk factors for glaucoma
While genetics can increase your likelihood of developing glaucoma, other factors also contribute, including:
- Age: The risk increases as you get older (People over 60 are six times more likely to develop glaucoma.1)
- Medical conditions: Diabetes and high blood pressure can impact eye health
- Eye injuries or certain medications
Can you prevent glaucoma?
While you can’t change your genetics, there are ways to reduce your risk and protect your vision:
- Regular comprehensive eye exams: Detect glaucoma early, often before symptoms appear.
- Managing eye pressure: Prescription eye drops or other treatments can lower intraocular pressure and slow disease progression.
- Healthy lifestyle habits: Exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and controlling conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure can support overall eye health.
- Protecting your eyes: Avoiding eye injuries and wearing protective eyewear during sports or hazardous activities helps maintain optic nerve health.
Having a family history of glaucoma doesn’t mean vision loss is inevitable. Early detection and proactive care can help protect your eyes. Glaucoma is much easier to manage when caught early, helping preserve long-term vision.
How our eye doctors can help
Regular comprehensive eye exams allow our experienced eye doctors to detect glaucoma early, even before noticeable symptoms appear. They can measure eye pressure, assess the optic nerve, and track changes over time. For those with a family history of glaucoma, more frequent monitoring may be recommended.
Protecting your eyesight from glaucoma
If glaucoma is detected, glaucoma treatment can help preserve vision. Treatments may include prescription eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery, depending on disease severity.
Staying informed about your family history and maintaining regular eye exams can help you take control of your eye health and reduce your risk of vision loss from glaucoma. Schedule your appointment today at Specs of Madison. Walk-ins are also available!
References:
- (n.d.). Glaucoma Risks. Glaucoma Research Foundation. Retrieved August 20, 2025, from https://glaucoma.org/understanding-glaucoma/risks