Eye Health • Glaucoma • Intraocular Pressure
Understanding Eye Pressure
Eye pressure is a key indicator of eye health. Keeping it within a healthy range is one of the most important ways to protect your vision long term.
Intraocular pressure, commonly called eye pressure, refers to the fluid pressure inside your eyes. Maintaining it within a normal range is essential for preserving the health of your optic nerve and preventing vision loss.
At Upper West Optical, measuring eye pressure is a routine part of every comprehensive eye exam, giving us an important window into your overall eye health.
What Is Intraocular Pressure?
Fluid Balance
Your eye constantly produces and drains a clear fluid called aqueous humor. When drainage is impaired, pressure builds up inside the eye and can damage the optic nerve.
Normal Range
Eye pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). A normal range is generally considered to be between 10 and 21 mmHg, though this can vary by individual.
Silent Threat
High eye pressure typically causes no pain or visible symptoms, which is why regular testing is the only reliable way to detect it before damage occurs.
Eye Pressure and Glaucoma
Primary Risk Factor
Elevated intraocular pressure is the most significant controllable risk factor for glaucoma, a group of conditions that progressively damage the optic nerve.
Optic Nerve Damage
Sustained high pressure compresses and damages optic nerve fibers over time, leading to gradual peripheral vision loss that can progress to blindness if untreated.
Normal Tension Glaucoma
Some people develop glaucoma even with normal eye pressure levels, which is why a full exam including optic nerve assessment is essential alongside pressure testing.
Risk Factors for High Eye Pressure
- Family history of glaucoma or ocular hypertension
- Age over 40, with risk increasing significantly after 60
- African American or Hispanic heritage
- High myopia or extreme farsightedness
- Long-term use of corticosteroid medications
- Previous eye injuries or surgeries
- Conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure
How Eye Pressure Is Measured
Tonometry
The most common method uses a device that applies a small puff of air or gentle contact to the eye surface to measure the resistance, giving an accurate pressure reading.
Part of Every Exam
At Upper West Optical, eye pressure measurement is included as a standard component of comprehensive eye exams, not an optional add-on.
Ongoing Monitoring
For patients with elevated pressure or known risk factors, more frequent pressure checks allow us to track trends and intervene early when needed.
Managing Eye Pressure
When eye pressure is elevated, several treatment options may be considered depending on the degree of elevation and other individual risk factors. These can include prescription eye drops, laser therapy, or surgical procedures.
At Upper West Optical, we work closely with ophthalmologists and other eye care specialists to ensure patients with elevated eye pressure receive timely and appropriate care. Early detection always leads to better outcomes.
Get Your Eye Pressure Checked Today
Because high eye pressure has no symptoms, the only way to know your levels are healthy is through a professional eye exam. Schedule yours at Upper West Optical and protect your vision before problems develop.
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