Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it’s a group of eye conditions that can cause irreversible damage to your vision with few warning signs. If you’re caring for a loved one or worried about your eye health, you might wonder if glaucoma is hereditary.
The short answer is that although it is not the only factor, those with a family history of glaucoma can be more likely to develop it than those without a genetic connection.
Fortunately, if you have a family history of glaucoma, you can take proactive steps to protect your vision. During comprehensive eye exams, we can routinely check for glaucoma development and answer any questions you may have about your personal eye health.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma isn’t just one disease—it’s a group of eye disorders that damage the optic nerve, the vital connection between your eye and brain. This damage is often caused by elevated pressure inside the eye (known as intraocular pressure), though glaucoma can also occur when your eyes have a normal pressure level.
The concerning thing about glaucoma is its gradual onset. You may not notice subtle vision changes until significant damage has been done. That makes early detection incredibly important—especially if you have a family history of the disease.
Types of Hereditary Glaucoma
Different types of glaucoma have varying degrees of heritability, and some are far more connected to genetics than others. Understanding which type of glaucoma runs in your family can provide deeper insights into your risk factors.
Here are some of the types of hereditary glaucoma you need to be aware of:
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Primary open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of glaucoma and is known to have a genetic component. If a first-degree relative (like a parent or sibling) has it, your risk can increase significantly. This type develops slowly over time and typically affects peripheral vision first.
Primary Congenital Glaucoma
Primary congenital glaucoma is diagnosed in infants or young children. It is rare but often caused by genetic mutations. If a parent carries these gene mutations, the chance of passing them on to their child can be higher.
Early-Onset Glaucoma
A variation of primary open-angle, early-onset glaucoma emerges in individuals before age 40. Genetic mutations almost always play a role in this condition, which can lead to earlier and more severe eyesight problems.
Risk Factors for Glaucoma
Studies show that having a first-degree relative with glaucoma can make you four to nine times more likely to get it. However, although genetics play a significant role, your family history is just one piece of the puzzle.
Here are other factors that might increase your chance of developing glaucoma if it runs in your family:
- Age: The risk increases as you grow older, especially after age 60.
- Ethnicity: African Americans and people of Hispanic or Latino descent have higher risks of primary open-angle glaucoma, while Asians are more prone to angle-closure glaucoma.
- Existing Conditions: Disorders like diabetes and high blood pressure can compound your risk of developing glaucoma.
How Is Glaucoma Inherited?
Glaucoma doesn’t follow a single line of inheritance across families. It can pass through genetic patterns, including autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive inheritance.
Is Glaucoma Inherited from Mother or Father?
Glaucoma can be inherited from either parent. It depends on whether they pass along specific gene mutations associated with the condition. Both maternal and paternal family histories should be considered when assessing risk.
If My Parent Has Glaucoma, Will I Get It?
While having a parent with glaucoma raises your risk significantly, it’s not a guarantee that you’ll develop it. Lifestyle factors, environmental influences, and proactive eye care can impact outcomes. However, you should discuss regular screening with your eye doctor if your parent has glaucoma.
Is Glaucoma Hereditary from Grandparents?
Yes, glaucoma can skip generations. If your grandparents had glaucoma, you may still be at risk, even if your parents don’t have the condition.
How Do I Know If I Have the Gene for Glaucoma?
Genetic testing can identify specific mutations linked to hereditary glaucoma. While this testing isn’t routine, it can provide peace of mind or guide early interventions if you’re particularly concerned about your family history.
How Can I Prevent Glaucoma If I Have a Family History?
While there’s no surefire way to prevent glaucoma, there are ways to lower your risk or catch it early before it leads to significant vision loss. Here’s what you can do if glaucoma runs in your family:
- Get Regular Eye Exams: If you have a family history, schedule comprehensive eye exams every 1–2 years. These exams should include tests to measure intraocular pressure and optic nerve health.
- Know Your Family History: Understanding your family’s eye health history can help us assess your risk and determine the best action to take.
- Protect Your Eyes: Wearing protective eyewear during sports or activities reduces your risk of trauma, which can lead to secondary glaucoma.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Adopt habits that support your overall health, such as consuming a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing chronic conditions like diabetes.
- Talk to Your Doctor About Preventative Measures: If you’re at high risk, we might recommend more routine testing or early treatments, such as medicated eye drops, to catch and reduce high intraocular pressure proactively.
Take Charge of Your Eye Health Today
Forest City Optometry advocates for people to inform themselves about their family history, get regular checkups, and adopt proactive habits to safeguard their long-term vision.
Contact us today to schedule your next eye exam if glaucoma runs in your family and take the first step toward preserving your sight.
