Many of us have heard glaucoma, but do we really understand what it is and how to know if we are at risk for it? Glaucoma is an eye disease that is a problem all over the world. The scary thing about glaucoma is that there are often no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. It’s estimated that 50% of people with glaucoma don’t even know they have it. However, certain groups of people have a higher risk than others. Unfortunately, there is no cure for glaucoma right now, but there are effective treatment options. The key to treatment is receiving a diagnosis early in the disease before you or a family member loses sight.

Because glaucoma is hereditary an estimated 50% of the time, it’s important to pay attention to your family history. For example, the rate of glaucoma is 10 times higher among individuals who have a sibling with glaucoma. Anyone who is a blood relative of someone with glaucoma is at an increased risk. Therefore, it’s important to talk with your family about the history of vision in your family. Once you share your concern about glaucoma with your family, help them get appointments to get their eyes fully checked.

It is incredibly important for you and your family to get complete eye exams every year. Once you and your family are more attune to the need for comprehensive eye exams. If glaucoma and its hereditary nature concerns you, make sure to mention it to Dr. Matzkin at your next eye exam. This will enable him to diagnosis and prescribe treatment to help prevent vision loss.