When a rise in eye pressure is caused by another eye condition this is called secondary glaucoma. There is also a rare but sometimes serious condition in babies called developmental glaucoma which is caused by a malformation in the eye. This leaflet is about chronic and acute glaucoma. In the UK some form of glaucoma affects about 2 in 100 people over the age of 40. There are several factors which increase the risk.
Chronic glaucoma becomes much more common with increasing age.
It is uncommon below the age of 40 but affects one per cent of people over this age and five per cent over 65. If you are of African origin you are more at risk of chronic glaucoma and it may come on somewhat earlier and be more severe. So make sure that you have regular tests. If you have a close relative who has chronic glaucoma then you should have eye tests at intervals. You should advise other members of your family to do the same.