Low blood supply to the eye as a result of diabetes, insufficient flow of blood to the head due to blocked arteries in the neck, or blockage of blood vessels in the back of the eye causes the abnormal blood vessel growth. Several tests can help your eye care professional detect glaucoma. Individuals at high risk for glaucoma should have a dilated pupil eye examination at least every two years. High risk factors for glaucoma include being an African American over 40, having a family history of the disease, or for the general population, being over 60. Those who are very nearsighted, have a history of diabetes, have experienced eye injury or eye surgery, or take prescription steroids also have an increased risk of developing glaucoma.
Japanese ancestry is a risk factor for normal-tension glaucoma.
There are several methods for measuring eye pressure. The Schiotz and applanation tonometer measure eye pressure by directly applying pressure on the cornea. The tonometer is gently placed against your eyeball and a pressure reading is then taken from the instrument. These methods require that anesthetic drops are put in both eyes. Eye pressure can also be measured by sending a puff of air onto the eyeball.