Understanding Eye Pressure and Its Role in Long-Term Vision Health
Maintaining healthy intraocular pressure (IOP) is essential for protecting your vision. Abnormal eye pressure is a leading cause of glaucoma, an eye condition that damages the optic nerve and can lead to irreversible vision loss. Early diagnosis and proper glaucoma treatment can prevent severe complications and help maintain long-term eye health. What Is Eye Pressure? Eye pressure, or intraocular pressure, refers to the fluid pressure inside the eyes. Balanced IOP is maintained by the production and drainage of a clear fluid, called aqueous humor, which nurtures and supports the eye's internal structures. When the drainage system is blocked or interrupted, fluid builds up, increasing IOP and potentially causing damage to the delicate structures in the eye. Measuring Eye Pressure To detect and manage irregular eye pressure, an eye doctor measures IOP during a routine tonometry test. Common methods include: Goldmann Applanation Tonometry (standard for accurate measurements) Non-conta...