The proper functioning of our cardiovascular system also involves monitoring blood pressure. Similarly, when it comes to eye health, it is equally important to measure ocular pressure.
Ocular pressure is determined by the balance between the production and drainage of intraocular fluid. However, unlike blood pressure, which can be checked at home, eye pressure must be monitored by an eye care specialist.
Importance of Eye Pressure Monitoring
Abnormal eye pressure, like high arterial blood pressure, is a crucial signal that something is wrong. Intraocular pressure measurement is called tonometry and usually ranges between 12 and 21 mmHg (millimeters of mercury).
High eye pressure values are often associated with glaucoma, a severe disease that can cause chronic and progressive damage to the optic nerve. If left undiagnosed, it can lead to complete blindness.
Unfortunately, it frequently occurs that those affected are unaware of having this condition.
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief” of vision since it gradually steals peripheral and central vision.
For these reasons, regular checkups with an ophthalmologist and monitoring of eye pressure are essential for everyone, not just those at risk of glaucoma or related conditions such as diabetes.
When to Check Eye Pressure
It is essential to schedule an annual checkup with an ophthalmologist, especially after age 40, to monitor both eye pressure and overall eye health.
Symptoms of glaucoma tend to appear in advanced stages of the disease when damage to the optic nerve has already occurred. The optic nerve transmits visual information from the retina to the central nervous system.
Glaucoma can irreparably damage the optic nerve, leading to a gradual loss of peripheral vision and eventually affecting central vision, resulting in total blindness. Therefore, if any indicators of visual disturbances in the peripheral field arise, it is essential to consult an ophthalmologist promptly to receive treatment for glaucoma.
Examining Ocular Pressure
Measuring eye pressure is a painless examination performed during an outpatient visit.
Various methods for measuring ocular pressure are available and include tonometry through contact or non-contact tonometers.
If a pressure anomaly is detected, the ophthalmologist may decide to perform additional diagnostic examinations to assess the status of the visual field, the iridocorneal angle, and corneal thickness. These examinations provide valuable insights into the health of the optic nerve.
Elevated eye pressure can be caused by certain long-term medications (e.g., corticosteroids) or inadequate drainage of the aqueous humor produced by the eye. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is vital to preserving eye health. This includes:
- A balanced diet
- Regular physical activity;
- Limited caffeine consumption;
- Protecting the eyes from the sun;
- Annual checkups with the eye doctor.
