Identifying Eye Pressure Causes to Protect Your Vision
Monitoring Eye Pressure Can Save Your Vision
An eye exam includes measuring eye pressure using a gentle puff of air or a small probe to assess the pressure inside the eye. Elevated intraocular pressure may signal glaucoma, a serious condition that can cause permanent vision loss if not addressed. If high pressure is detected, further tests are conducted to confirm the presence of glaucoma. Early diagnosis is crucial for managing the condition effectively, protecting the optic nerve, and safeguarding your vision for the years ahead.
Eye Pressure Causes
Eye pressure, also known as intraocular pressure (IOP), is influenced by the balance between the production and drainage of aqueous humor, the fluid inside the eye. Causes of elevated eye pressure include reduced drainage of aqueous humor through the eye’s drainage system, often due to blockage or dysfunction, eye injuries or trauma, certain medications (such as corticosteroids), eye conditions like inflammation or tumors, anatomical factors, and natural daily variations.
Measuring eye pressure is done through tonometry, including air-puff, applanation, rebound, and pneumatonometry. These measurements help detect elevated eye pressure, which can indicate glaucoma risk. Since eye pressure can fluctuate, multiple measurements and comprehensive exams, including corneal thickness assessment, are important for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.