Ocular Hypertension
If ocular hypertension has no symptoms, is it really something to worry about? Yes! This condition might lead to more serious complications down the road, so it’s important to know if you’re affected and the steps you need to take.
What Is Ocular Hypertension?
Ocular hypertension is a more common term to describe high intraocular pressure (IOP)—when too much fluid builds up in your eyes. Generally, 11 to 21 millimeters of mercury is considered normal eye pressure. Ocular hypertension measures at more than 22 millimeters.
Despite the increased pressure, there is no damage to the optic nerve. Once damage has occurred, the condition is rediagnosed as glaucoma, which is very serious.
Since ocular hypertension can develop into glaucoma, it’s crucial for those diagnosed to seek regular eye exams.
Causes
Too much eye fluid may be what causes ocular hypertension, but there are also cases in which the fluid drains out of the eye more slowly than normal. They both have the same result: Too much pressure builds up in the eye.
What diseases cause ocular hypertension? The following conditions can interfere with fluid drainage and lead to high IOP:
- Pigment dispersion syndrome
- Cataracts
- Eye tumors
- Uveitis
- Eye damage
- Pseudoexfoliation syndrome
Diabetes and high blood pressure are also contributing factors.
Symptoms
There are generally no symptoms associated with ocular hypertension. If the pressure gets too high, there may be some pain or discomfort.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis starts with a comprehensive eye exam, which typically includes an eye pressure test. If your doctor suspects ocular hypertension after doing an exam, they may perform one or more of the following tests to investigate further:
- Tonometry: Measures inner eye pressure.
- Pachymetry: Measures cornea thickness, which can affect tonometry results.
- Gonioscopy: Checks whether your eye is draining properly.
There’s a good chance they’ll also perform an optical coherence tomography test to check the health of your ocular nerve tissue and ensure you aren’t developing glaucoma.
Treatment Options
Regular eye exams are essential to ensure the pressure doesn’t increase and damage the optic nerve. If you’re due for your annual eye exam, make one with Visionworks today so you can get checked.
Ultimately, treatment depends on your eye doctor’s judgment. Eye drops that reduce the pressure are common, and corrective surgery may be an option if the drops don’t do the job. If the pressure isn’t too bad, the doctor may want to hold off on treatment and simply monitor the situation to see how it progresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can You Lower Ocular Hypertension Naturally?
Can Anxiety Increase Ocular Pressure?
Protect Your Vision with Annual Eye Exams
Schedule an eye exam through Visionworks today and ensure better vision for your tomorrow!
