Can Eye Diseases Be Inherited?

The phrase “you have your mother’s eyes” might refer to more than just eye color. Some eye diseases are passed down through family genes, following different genetic patterns due to specific gene mutations. While not all eye conditions are hereditary, knowing your family’s eye health history can help prevent or slow down the progression of genetic eye diseases. If you have a family history of eye conditions, be sure to share this information with your eye doctor. At EyeCare Optical, we encourage our patients to provide accurate details on their medical and family history in their initial patient forms. Combined with a comprehensive eye exam, this information can help detect potential issues early—before they lead to significant vision impairment or loss.

Understanding Inherited Eye Diseases

Most people hope their inheritance comes in the form of financial gain, not an increased risk for eye diseases. Inherited eye diseases occur when genetic mutations alter the structure or function of the eyes, leading to vision problems or disorders. These conditions follow different inheritance patterns, including dominant, recessive, or X-linked, and may appear at birth, in childhood, or later in life. Some of the most common inherited eye diseases include:

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to increased eye pressure. While anyone can develop glaucoma, those with a family history—particularly of primary open-angle glaucoma—face a higher risk. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness.

Cataracts

Cataracts cause clouding of the eye’s lens, leading to blurred vision. While primarily associated with aging (affecting over 90% of individuals aged 65 and older), genetic factors can predispose some people to develop cataracts earlier in life. Congenital cataracts can also be inherited, affecting infants from birth.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in older adults, primarily affecting the macula—the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. Studies have shown a strong genetic link to this disease, increasing the risk for those with affected family members.

Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis Pigmentosa is a rare inherited disorder caused by mutations in one of more than 60 different genes. It leads to gradual retinal degeneration and vision loss. Affecting approximately 1 in 5,000 people worldwide, symptoms often begin with night blindness and progress to peripheral vision loss, potentially resulting in total blindness.

Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition in which the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape, distorting vision. While frequent eye rubbing has been linked to its development, genetic mutations are believed to play a significant role in its onset.

Strabismus and Amblyopia

Strabismus (misaligned eyes) and amblyopia (lazy eye) have strong genetic components. Strabismus, which affects the coordination of eye muscles, tends to run in families. Amblyopia, often a consequence of strabismus, is more likely to develop if a parent or sibling has the condition.

Early Detection and Prevention

Recognizing your family history of eye disease is crucial for early detection and treatment. The more information you have about inherited conditions, the better prepared you are to take proactive measures. The best course of action? Schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Early diagnosis can make all the difference in managing hereditary eye diseases.

Book your eye exam today at one of EyeCare Optical‘s convenient locations by calling (865) 584-0905.