Intraocular pressure (IOP), also known as eye pressure, is the force exerted by the fluids inside the eye. This pressure is important for maintaining the shape of the eye and the health of the eye tissues.
Normal IOP varies between 10 and 21 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). When IOP is above normal, it is called ocular hypertension. Ocular hypertension is a major risk factor for glaucoma, a disease that can damage the optic nerve and lead to blindness.
Symptoms of high intraocular pressure:
- Blurry vision
- Headache
- Eye pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Redness in the eyes
- **halos around lights**
- Loss of peripheral vision
It is important to note that not everyone with ocular hypertension has symptoms. Therefore, it is important to have regular eye exams to measure IOP and detect any problems early.
Causes of high intraocular pressure:
- Excessive production of aqueous humor: Aqueous humor is a fluid that is constantly produced and drained from the eye. If aqueous humor production is excessive, IOP may increase.
- Inadequate drainage of aqueous humor: Aqueous humor drains from the eye through a channel called the anterior chamber angle. If this channel is blocked, IOP may increase.
- Risk factors: Some risk factors for ocular hypertension include age, race, family history of glaucoma, diabetes, and use of certain medications.
Treatment of high intraocular pressure:
Treatment for ocular hypertension depends on the cause and severity of the disease. Treatment may include:
- Eye drops: Eye drops that reduce the production of aqueous humor or improve the drainage of aqueous humor.
- Laser: Laser treatment that can help improve the drainage of aqueous humor.
- Surgery: Surgery to create a new drainage channel for the aqueous humor.
Prevention of high intraocular pressure:
There is no safe way to prevent ocular hypertension. However, you can reduce your risk of developing the disease by having regular eye exams and controlling risk factors such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
