,
Book an
Appointment
Now

Quick Appointment Form

Key Risk Factors of Glaucoma To Look Out For

July 1, 2025

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide, but many people don’t realize they have it until it’s too late. Often developing without noticeable symptoms, glaucoma can silently damage your optic nerve over time. That’s why understanding the risk factors and getting regular eye exams is so important. At Vision Center South in Marianna, FL, our team is here to help you stay informed and proactive about your eye health.
 

What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, typically due to increased pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure). Over time, this damage can lead to peripheral vision loss and, if untreated, total blindness. The most common type, open-angle glaucoma, progresses slowly and often goes unnoticed until significant vision loss occurs.
 

Common Risk Factors of Glaucoma

Understanding your risk factors is key to protecting your vision. Some individuals are more likely to develop glaucoma due to the following:
 

  • Age: People over the age of 60 are at greater risk.

  • Family History: Having a close relative with glaucoma significantly increases your chances.

  • Ethnicity: African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians are at higher risk for certain types of glaucoma.

  • Elevated Intraocular Pressure: Higher-than-normal eye pressure is a leading risk factor.

  • Medical Conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can increase the likelihood of developing glaucoma.

  • Eye Injuries: Previous trauma to the eye can lead to secondary glaucoma.

  • Use of Steroid Medications:  Prolonged use of corticosteroids, especially in eye drop form, may increase risk.


Why Routine Eye Exams Are Crucial 

Because glaucoma often develops with no early symptoms, regular eye exams are essential - especially for those at higher risk. During a comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor will measure your intraocular pressure, assess your optic nerve, and perform visual field tests to detect early signs of glaucoma.
 

Early Signals of Glaucoma to Be Aware Of

Although open-angle glaucoma is typically symptomless in the beginning, other types of glaucoma may cause more immediate symptoms. Watch for these warning signs:
 

  • Gradual loss of peripheral vision

  • Halos around lights

  • Blurred or tunnel vision

  • Eye pain or pressure

  • Sudden vision loss (especially with angle-closure glaucoma)


If you notice any of these signs, it's critical to schedule an eye exam right away.
 

Protect Your Vision with Early Detection

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness - but with early detection and proper management, you can preserve your vision for years to come. At Vision Center South, we use advanced technology to monitor and manage glaucoma, ensuring you receive the best care possible.
 

Don’t wait for symptoms of glaucoma to appear, schedule your annual eye exam at Vision Center South in Marianna, Florida, and take the first step in protecting your vision. Schedule online or call (850) 482-2336 today.

Roya1234 none 8:00am - 5:00pm 8:00am - 5:00pm 8:00am - 5:00pm 8:00am - 5:00pm 8:00am - 5:00pm Closed Closed optometrist # # # # https://meetmarlo.com/shop/00u4bju7jaRbsJ0X6297 https://denney.myclstore.com/ https://denney.myclstore.com/ https://denney.myclstore.com/ 121 St. Joseph Ave. Brewton, AL 36426 2518673635 607 Boll Weevil Cir #C Enterprise, AL 36330 3343476599 4340 Lafayette Street Marianna, FL 32446 8504822336 2826 Ross Clark Circle, Suite 102 Dothan, AL 36301 3347932633