Are you worried about glaucoma? Maybe you have heard it called the “silent thief of sight” and feel uneasy. It is scary to think about losing vision without even realizing it. That feeling of uncertainty is natural. Understanding intraocular pressure (IOP) can help you take control of your eye health.
 

What Is Intraocular Pressure (IOP)?

Think of intraocular pressure as the pressure inside your eye. It is created by a fluid called aqueous humor. This fluid flows in and out of the eye, maintaining balance. When this process works as it should, your eye pressure stays normal.
 

But sometimes, the fluid does not drain properly, causing pressure to build up. High eye pressure does not always mean something is wrong, but it is a major risk factor for glaucoma. Keeping your IOP in check is key to protecting your vision.
 

How Does High IOP Lead to Glaucoma?

High IOP can damage the optic nerve that carries visual signals to the brain. Damage can create blind spots and may lead to permanent vision loss.
 

Glaucoma often starts without symptoms. You might not notice anything until the damage is already done. That is why understanding and monitoring your IOP is so important. It is a way to catch potential problems early.
 

What Are Normal IOP Levels?

Normal IOP typically ranges from 10 to 21 mmHg. But “normal” is not the same for everyone. Some people can have higher pressure without any problems. Others can develop glaucoma even with lower pressure. It is not just about the numbers but how your eyes respond.
 

Your eye doctor can check your IOP during a routine exam. This quick test, which is painless but powerful, gives you valuable insight into your eye health.
 

Who Is at Risk for High IOP and Glaucoma?

Anyone can develop glaucoma, but some people are at higher risk. Factors include:

• Family history of glaucoma.

• Age (risk increases after 40).

• Being African American, Hispanic, or Asian.

• Having thin corneas.

• Pre-existing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
   

Regular eye exams are even more important if any of these apply to you.
 

Can High IOP Be Treated?

Yes, it can. The goal is to lower the pressure and reduce the risk of optic nerve damage. Treatments include:

• Eye drops help lower IOP by reducing fluid production or improving drainage.

• Laser therapy: A quick procedure to improve fluid drainage in the eye.

• Surgery: For more severe cases, procedures can create new drainage pathways.
   

Lifestyle changes can also help. Eating a healthy diet, staying active, and avoiding smoking can support overall eye health. Regular checkups keep you ahead of any potential problems.
 

Why Routine Eye Exams Matter

You cannot feel high eye pressure, and there are no early warning signs, making regular eye exams crucial. They help measure your eye pressure and check for glaucoma. Early detection is key, as most people can manage high eye pressure or glaucoma with proper care. Be proactive about your eye health.
 

For more on glaucoma, visit Gregg Family Eye Care at our North Wales or Secane, Pennsylvania, offices. Call (215) 699-2020 or (610) 831-4300 to schedule an appointment today.

 

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/24552-eye-intraocular-pressure

https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/glaucoma/glaucoma-and-eye-pressure