Glaucoma can act like a thief in the night, stealing your eyesight while you’re unawares.
The only way to make sure that it doesn’t sneak up is to have regular eye exams. You’re at higher risk of glaucoma if you:
- Have a family history of the condition
- Are black
- Are over age 40
- Have an immediate family member (brother, sister, parent) with the condition
- Have a condition that requires use of an oral or inhaled steroid (e.g. asthma)
- Have had eye surgery
- Are nearsighted
Other risk factors for glaucoma include increased intraocular pressure (pressure in the eye) and some chronic conditions including diabetes, migraine, nearsightedness, and sleep apnea. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of glaucoma.
Learn more in our comprehensive overview of glaucoma