If you have a family history of glaucoma, it is important to be aware of the potential risk and to take steps to protect your eye health. While having a family history of glaucoma is a significant risk factor for developing the disease, it does not necessarily mean that you will develop it.
However, it is important to understand that glaucoma often has no early symptoms and can cause gradual vision loss over time, so early detection and treatment are crucial for preserving vision. If you have a family history of glaucoma, it’s recommended that you have regular eye exams to monitor your eye health.
During an eye exam, your eye doctor will check the pressure in your eye, examine the optic nerve, and may perform other tests to detect signs of glaucoma. If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, your eye doctor can work with you to develop a treatment plan to manage the disease and prevent vision loss.
There are several steps you can take to protect your eye health and reduce your risk of developing glaucoma:
Get regular eye exams: As mentioned, regular eye exams are important for detecting signs of glaucoma early. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that adults have a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years, starting at age 40, and more frequently if you have a family history of eye disease.
Know your family history: If you have a family history of glaucoma or other eye diseases, inform your eye doctor. This information can help them monitor your eye health more closely and make recommendations for preventative measures.
Live a healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk of developing glaucoma. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and not smoking are all important factors for overall health, including eye health.
Protect your eyes: Wear protective eyewear when engaging in activities that could cause eye injury, such as playing sports or doing home improvement projects.
Follow your doctor’s recommendations: If you are diagnosed with glaucoma or any other eye disease, follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and monitoring.
In summary, if you have a family history of glaucoma, it is important to be aware of the potential risk and to take steps to protect your eye health. Regular eye exams, healthy lifestyle habits, and protective eyewear can all help reduce the risk of developing glaucoma or other eye diseases.
At The Eye Center- Dr. Mahnaz Naveed Shah & Associates our team of eight ophthalmology subspecialists/ eye specialists, eye surgeons who are considered amongst the very best eye specialists in Karachi and in Pakistan, have the diagnostic and treatment capabilities to treat from the simplest to the most complex patients. We work hard to provide our patients with the best possible medical and surgical eye care, in a state of the art purpose built eye care facility. We offer the entire array of medical, laser and surgical treatments to help provide patients the best possible care in the most efficient, safe and ethical manner.
If you need an appointment, please contact us at 03041119544 during our working hours or leave us a WhatsApp message at +923028291799 and someone will connect with you. Walk-in appointments are also available for emergencies. We can also be reached through our web portal on www.surgicaleyecenter.org
