Is bad eyesight genetic?

While some people consider anything below 20/20 to be bad eyesight, others consider bad eyesight to be anything that requires prescription glasses.

A variety of factors can contribute to bad eyesight, including the environment and your lifestyle, but is it

Is bad eyesight genetic? | Dittman Eyecare

possible that bad eyesight is genetic?

The answer to this is not simple, so let’s discuss:

Bad Eyesight and Genetics

Many eye conditions can be inherited, but it is important to look at the causes of poor eyesight, not just the poor eyesight itself. Below are some eye conditions that tend to be hereditary:

Farsightedness

Farsightedness is a refractive error called hyperopia. This can cause issues with looking at things up close. The shape of your cornea and your eye play a role in having farsightedness, as well as your family history of the condition and specific lifestyle choices.

Nearsightedness

Nearsightedness, also called myopia, is a refractive error that makes it difficult to see things at a distance. This condition develops when your cornea has too much of a curve or when your eye is longer than average. Having nearsighted parents can put you at risk of this condition, as well as environmental factors such as overextending your near vision.

Astigmatism

This is one of the most common refractive errors. It can cause blurry vision in both adults and children. This condition occurs because of an abnormal corneal form or eye lens, preventing light from concentrating on your retina. This can be passed on genetically and can appear as early as infancy.

Macular Degeneration

Heritage, age, and environment can all play a role in whether you get this condition. This is an eye disease that has a high risk of blindness. If this condition is present in your family, it could make you more likely to have vision problems after the age of 40.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is one of the primary causes of vision loss in Americans. This eye disease is one that harms the optic nerve, typically due to too much pressure within the eye. If you use medications that elevate eye pressure or members of your family suffer from this condition, you have a higher chance of developing glaucoma.

Strabismus

This is also known as crossed eyes, meaning that neither of your eyes can focus on the same thing at the same time. IF you are farsighted or have inadequate control over your eye muscles, you have a higher chance of developing this condition. Your genetics may also contribute to your risk.

Retinitis Pigmentosa

This condition can emerge in children, with the main symptoms being issues with seeing at night or a gradual decrease in their peripheral vision. This condition can lead to complete vision loss over time. If you have a family history of this condition, it can increase your odds of getting it.

Some of these conditions can worsen over time, and others can improve with the correct treatment. If you think you may be suffering from one of these eye conditions, it is best to consult with your eye doctor.

With a comprehensive eye exam at Dittman Eyecare, we can help catch and treat these conditions early to preserve your vision.