Talking About Optometry For Kids

Does Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma Run In Your Family? Information To Help You Protect Your Visual Health

26 July 2021

Amelia Dunn

Most people know that their genetic makeup plays a key role in their physical characteristics, such as hair and eye color, and that it can also predispose them to certain health conditions, like sickle cell anemia and some types of cancer. What they may not know, however, is that genetics can also place them at a much higher risk of experiencing visual health problems, such as glaucoma. 

Primary open-angle glaucoma, the most common type of glaucoma, is hereditary, and those with a familial history of this type of glaucoma are at a much higher risk of developing it at some point in their lives. If your family has a history of primary open-angle glaucoma, this information can help you learn more about the condition so that you can better protect your visual health. 

What is primary open-angle glaucoma? 

While there are many different types of this serious eye health condition, primary open-angle glaucoma, also called open-angle or chronic glaucoma, accounts for nearly 90% of glaucoma cases. Open-angle glaucoma occurs as the natural drainage canals of the eye begin to form restrictive clogs that result in a gradual, unhealthy increase in the pressure inside the eye. Unlike angle-closure glaucoma, which results in total blockages and sharp increases in intraocular eye pressure, primary open-angle glaucoma develops and progresses relatively slowly, allowing it to be very advanced before it is noticed. 

What symptoms are common when developing open-angle glaucoma? 

While patients who are developing primary open-angle glaucoma may experience some loss of peripheral vision, their main vision typically remains relatively clear as the disease progresses. Because of this, regular eye examinations are the most reliable way to diagnose the disease before it becomes advanced. If not diagnosed before it reaches an advanced stage, the optic nerve can experience severe damage resulting in major vision loss or blindness. 

What conditions increase the chances of developing open-angle glaucoma? 

In those with a genetic predisposition to develop open-angle glaucoma, the natural aging process is often enough to fuel its advancement. However, there are some other physical health factors that can also increase the risk of developing this disease. Those who have been diagnosed with diabetes or have uncontrolled blood sugar and those with hypertension are also believed to be at higher risk. 

If you have a relative with primary open-angle glaucoma or feel you may be at risk of developing this serious eye health problem, making an appointment at an eye care center is the best way to protect your visual health. 

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