Is Glaucoma Hereditary? | Broberg Eye Care

Affecting over three million people in America, Glaucoma is a progressive disease that causes damage to the optic nerves. The most common symptoms of glaucoma are loss of vision and blurry vision. Read more about glaucoma and glaucoma treatment plans.

There are two main types of glaucoma: open-angle and closed-angle. Family history of these types of glaucoma increases an individual’s risk of developing glaucoma.

Is open-angle glaucoma hereditary?
Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type of glaucoma and makes up around 90% of cases. Open-angle glaucoma is hereditary; individuals with a family history of glaucoma are four to nine times more likely to develop glaucoma. If you have a family history of glaucoma, it is important to let your ophthalmologist know as soon as possible. Knowing this information can help ophthalmologists be on the lookout for early signs of glaucoma and take the necessary steps to treat and slow it down.

Is closed-angle glaucoma hereditary?
Closed-angle glaucoma is less common than open-angle glaucoma, and it typically occurs very suddenly. Though it is a less common type of glaucoma, it is still hereditary. Because closed-angle glaucoma typically occurs suddenly and without symptoms leading up to it, it is important to be informed on what it looks like and what to do if you experience symptoms of it. Closed-angle glaucoma usually requires immediate action to prevent vision loss.

If you have a sibling or parent who has closed-angle glaucoma, your own risk for this type of glaucoma increases greatly. Keep your siblings informed if you are diagnosed with glaucoma, and ask them to do the same.

Glaucoma is hereditary, so be sure to know your family history and let your ophthalmologist know if glaucoma runs in your family. Contact Broberg Eye Care to schedule an exam and discuss any questions you have or the symptoms you are experiencing.