How is glaucoma caused?

Glaucoma is a blinding eye disease primarily caused by the following factors: 1. Elevated intraocular pressure: An abnormal increase in pressure inside the eye, leading to optic nerve damage, is the main cause of glaucoma. Factors contributing to elevated intraocular pressure may include abnormal eye development (such as narrow anterior chamber angles) or dysfunction of the eye's drainage system. 2. Genetic factors: Glaucoma has a certain hereditary component. Individuals with a family history of glaucoma have a significantly higher risk of developing the disease—about six times greater than those without such a family history. 3. Unhealthy lifestyle habits: Long-term improper use of the eyes, staying up late, and irregular eating patterns may increase the risk of developing glaucoma. 4. Systemic diseases: Underlying conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension, as well as inappropriate medication use (e.g., long-term use of corticosteroids), may also trigger glaucoma.