Everything You Need To Know About The Vision-Family Connection
In your reflection in the mirror, you may see a resemblance to your parents. You may have heard you have your mother’s eyes, but does this go beyond color?
The science of genetics is complex, but it’s become increasingly clear that, like our physical attributes, our genes influence our vision. If your parents and grandparents wore glasses at a young age, you could wonder if your bad eyesight is a genetic hand-me-down.
We frequently see evidence of the genetic connection at Lang Family Eye Care. You’d be amazed how many parents bring one child with vision issues into our clinic and leave their other kids at home. Generally, if children do not exhibit obvious signs of vision problems, the parents assume everything’s good. We often find out later that their other children have the same eye problems. This even gets overlooked with identical twins! Read on to find out more about the genetics of vision and what you can do to protect your child’s eyes.
Is Eyesight Genetic?
It’s normal for parents to worry that their bad vision will be passed on to their children. This is understandable, since genome-wide association studies have shown that a family history of many eye diseases dramatically increases the likelihood of developing the same condition. For instance, astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness are typically passed down through generations. Research has allowed scientists to identify a gene susceptibility locus for vision disorders such as myopia. However, there is a lot more to vision disorder than pure genetics.
Genes and Eyesight: A Complex Connection
Geneticists and eye health experts are still figuring out how our genetic variation can influence our vision. While the picture is incomplete, there’s a growing body of evidence highlighting the role of genetics in determining our eyesight.
Certain eye diseases are clearly inherited. Age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma, two of the most common adult eye diseases, have been linked to specific genetic markers. These conditions can lead to impaired vision or, in some cases, even vision loss. Even everyday vision problems like nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia) are influenced by our genes.
Inheriting Poor Eyesight: Is It Inevitable?
Your genes do play a role in shaping your eyesight, but they don’t tell the whole story. If your parents have vision problems, you’re more likely to inherit the same conditions and pass those on to your children. However, not every case of poor eyesight can be traced back to your family tree. Environmental factors can also significantly impact eyesight. Lifestyle habits, overall health, and even the amount of time spent looking at screens can affect vision, too.
Is nearsightedness genetic?
Nearsightedness, or myopia, is the most common refractive error in which faraway objects appear blurry while close objects are seen clearly. A potent combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors contribute to the onset of this condition.
Studies have identified over 200 genes linked to myopia, suggesting that a complex interplay of genetic factors contributes to the development of this condition. That being said, genetic conditions leading directly to myopia, like Stickler syndrome, Marfan syndrome, Cohen syndrome, retinitis pigmentosa, and cone-rod dystrophy, are rare.
Interestingly, nearsightedness does not follow the typical “dominant” or “recessive” trait pattern that characterizes many genetic conditions. Rather, it arises from a delicate balance of genetic and environmental influences. This means that even if one or both parents have myopia genes, a child will not inevitably inherit the condition.
The parental gene contribution, whether from the mother or father, largely depends on the specific genetic condition in play. However, more often than not, a blend of genes from both parents leads to the onset of myopia. A child’s risk of developing nearsightedness increases if they have an immediate relative with the condition.
While genes play a significant role, environmental triggers also affect the onset and progression of nearsightedness. These may include prolonged periods of close-up work, such as reading or writing, and lack of outdoor exposure that leaves the eyes unaccustomed to focusing on distant objects. Thus, our modern lifestyles, characterized by increased screen time and indoor activities, are contributing to a steep global rise in myopia.
Are you born with myopia, or does it develop over time?
Though some people may be nearsighted from birth, others develop this condition gradually, usually in their teen years or sometimes later in life. While nearsightedness tends to worsen during adolescence, the progression slows and stabilizes between the ages of 15-16, with some people experiencing an improvement in later adulthood.
Currently, there’s no cure for nearsightedness, but treatments are available to slow its progression or correct vision. These include options like low-dose atropine eye drops, special contact lenses, glasses, or laser eye surgery that reshapes the cornea to improve vision. At Lang Family Eye Care, we highly recommend Ortho-K for most myopic patients, especially children, as a highly effective non-surgical option. We are happy to give you a consultation to see if Ortho-K is right for you or your child.
Is there a genetic predisposition to hyperopia?
Farsightedness, or hyperopia, is another one of the most common refractive errors we see in children and adults. Unlike myopia, hyperopia does not seem to have as much of a genetic connection. The condition itself is complex and influenced by various genetic variations, each of which has a small effect on the individual’s likelihood of being farsighted.
While a few genes related to farsightedness have been identified, none of them appear to play a significant role in the development of the condition. That being said, it’s important to note that at least some of the genes that influence farsightedness play roles in eye development, particularly in determining the length of the eyeball from front to back. Environmental factors may also contribute to the likelihood of being farsighted, although these have not been well-studied.
Common Genetic Eye Disorders
While eye problems are not entirely hereditary, some disorders have a significant association with genetic factors:
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is one example of a genetic eye condition that results from increased pressure within the eye, damaging the optic nerve connecting the eye and the brain. This condition usually develops in older adults with other risk factors like hypertension or diabetes. Early onset glaucoma, which appears before the age of 40, is less common, and glaucoma is rare in children.
Our office uses the “air puff test” (non-contact tonometry) to test for glaucoma. This measures intraocular eye pressure, which is a key factor for many forms of glaucoma. Normal Tension Glaucoma (glaucoma with normal eye pressure) is a relatively common condition that can lead to blindness if undetected and untreated.
Cataracts
Another common cause of vision loss is cataracts, which cloud the eye’s natural lens. Families sharing particular genes may increase cataract risk, especially in children. Some forms of congenital cataracts are genetically transmitted and may develop in infants or young kids. Scientists have identified 115 genes and 38 disease-associated genes contributing to cataract formation. However, cataract surgery can effectively treat this condition in most cases. If you are worried about a family history of cataracts, your Lang Family Eye Doctor can address any questions or concerns. We can refer you to a trusted ophthalmologist in the Waukesha area if cataract surgery is needed.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a diabetes complication, affects the eyes by altering the blood vessels in the retina. This is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States. While diabetes is primarily genetically derived, proactive lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, can significantly reduce the risk of developing DR. If you or someone in your family has diabetes, we strongly recommend you schedule an annual eye exam at Lang Family Eye Care.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Another leading cause of blindness, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is hereditary and more common among people of Asian and European descent. While a genetic predisposition may exist, AMD is also influenced by a mix of environmental factors. The disease is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 50 and affects the retina’s center, causing symptoms like blurred and distorted vision. Though it’s not curable, treatments can slow its progression and prevent further vision loss.
If you or a loved one is affected by AMD, Low Vision Counseling is available in southeast Wisconsin to maximize vision and increase their activities of daily living. Call Lang Family Eye Care to find a specialist close to you or a loved one.
Color Blindness
Color blindness, also called color vision deficiency, is an inability to differentiate certain colors. Red-green color blindness is the most common and is typically an inherited condition. It is caused by a missense mutation on the X chromosome, which is why it is more common in men than women. See also our article Can You See Magic Eye Pictures?
What are the risk factors for eye disease?
Acknowledging that “bad genes” don’t necessarily doom your eyesight is important. Genetics is only one of many factors contributing to your vision and eye health. Environmental factors, lifestyle habits, and even exposure to air pollutants can also be significant contributors.
According to the CDC, “risk factors for eye disease include race/ethnicity, age, sex, and having a chronic health condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease. Also, behavioral factors such as smoking and being physically inactive can increase the risk of vision loss.” Studies have shown that factors such as sex influence retinal gene expression, meaning two people may have the same genes that show up differently.
Will I need glasses if my parents have them?
As we discussed, many conditions such as myopia have hereditary components, which means that they run in families. If both parents need vision correction, there is a high likelihood that your children will as well. Similarly, if one sibling wears glasses, it is very likely that the other siblings will need some sort of vision correction. At Lang Family Eye Care, we encourage parents to get each of their children screened, even if they don’t notice any obvious signs of vision problems.
Is vision inherited from the mother or father?
The genetics behind vision is complicated, but some eye conditions rely more heavily on traits from your mother or father.
Certain eye conditions are more commonly associated with genes from your mother:
- Nearsightedness, or myopia, is the fallacious focus of light on the retina due to the elongated shape of the eyeball or over-curved cornea.
- Astigmatism, another common condition, results from a misshapen cornea or lens, causing blurred or distorted vision.
- Inherited Glaucoma refers to a group of conditions damaging the optic nerve, often leading to vision loss and potential blindness.
- Cataracts are thick, cloudy areas that develop in your natural lens that cause blurred vision and light sensitivity.
- Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) affects the retina’s central portion called the macula, which is responsible for our detailed, close-up vision.
You also may inherit eye conditions from your father, some of which are the same as ones passed on by your mother. Color blindness, a condition caused by a genetic mutation on the X chromosome, is more prevalent in men than women. Glaucoma, while somewhat influenced by your mother’s genes, is often more likely to be inherited from the father’s side. Similarly, AMD can also be passed down from your father. Fathers can also pass down genetic mutations that increase the likelihood of developing certain eye conditions, such as cataracts.
Is blindness genetic?
Blindness can indeed have genetic roots, although this is not the case for all forms of blindness. Conditions such as congenital blindness, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and a group of rare conditions known as inherited retinal diseases (IRDs).
It is important to note that the presence of genetics doesn’t guarantee the development of these conditions, but it does increase the risk. For example, someone with a family history of age-related macular degeneration or glaucoma is more likely to develop these conditions.
Genetic testing can help to diagnose these conditions, opening up potential treatment options. Although treatment varies depending on the specific condition and its severity, it might include regular monitoring, lifestyle changes, assistive technologies, and protective eyewear.
Science is rapidly identifying candidate genes for many vision diseases, which opens up the possibility of treatments such as gene replacement and stem cell therapy. These treatments are still being researched, but they represent a hopeful development in the field of ocular health.
Remember, while genetics can contribute to blindness, other factors are usually involved. We encourage you to discuss any concerns about blindness with us and your primary care doctor.
Steps You Can Take To Protect Your Children’s Eyes
While we can’t control our genetic makeup, we are not helpless when it comes to our eyesight. Even if your children have a genetic predisposition to poor vision, there are steps you can take to preserve their eye health and slow myopia progression.
- Schedule Regular Eye Exams: We recommend bringing your child for an eye exam as early as six months old. By tracking your child’s vision development from infancy, we can detect any ocular or vision anomalies early, providing effective treatment to prevent further progression. Regular eye exams are due at three years and before they start grade school, with annual exams thereafter.
- Encourage Healthy Eating Habits: The food your child consumes affects their vision health. Opt for meals rich in fruits and vegetables containing essential vitamins and minerals for healthy eyes and vision. There is some truth to the old wive’s tale that carrots are the secret to great eyesight. They contain Vitamin A, which plays a big role in protecting the retina.
- Spend Time Outdoors: Spending at least an hour outside every day can lower your child’s risk of conditions like myopia while allowing eye muscles to relax, enhancing their visual health.
- Wear Sunglasses Outdoors: Sunglasses shield your child’s eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays linked to serious ocular diseases. Look for lenses that offer block both UVA and UVB light.
- Keep Chemicals and Sharp Objects Out of Reach: Household cleaning products and sharp objects can severely threaten your child’s vision health. Ensure these items are out of their reach to avoid accidents, especially if your children are very young.
- Wear Protective Eyewear for Sports: Eye injuries account for over 1.5 million visits to the emergency room in the US. Wearing protective eyewear during sports guards against serious eye injuries like corneal abrasions or retinal detachment. Any punctures, bleeding, or swelling around the iris warrants a visit to the ER.
- Limit Screen Time: The long hours children spend on screens can harm their eyes, causing blurry vision, focusing issues, and even increasing the risk of myopia. For more information on this subject, see our article about digital eye strain.
Remember, your child learns from observing you. Set a good example by incorporating these tips into your life and caring for your own ocular health.
Schedule The Whole Family At Lang Family Eye Care
As we have learned, your genes act as a blueprint that can predispose you and your children to certain eye conditions. However, they don’t seal your fate. Through early detection and a proactive approach to eye health, we can protect your vision regardless of your family history.
Even if your children do not show obvious signs of visual impairment, we encourage you to screen them early. Bad eyesight in children can mimic many other conditions such as ADHD, so your child may be struggling to see without you realizing it. If you have any family history of myopia risk or other eye health conditions, make an appointment at Lang Family Eye Care so your genes don’t become your destiny!
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