Intraocular Pressure: A Key Risk Factor for Glaucoma

Intraocular pressure (IOP) plays a major role in the development of glaucoma, a leading cause for irreversible blindness worldwide. Maintaining IOP is important for overall eye health, including prevention of elevated IOP, which is one of the most significant risk factors for glaucoma. This blog will explore what IOP is, how it affects the eye, and why managing it is necessary to prevent irreversible vision loss. 

What is Intraocular Pressure (IOP)?  

Intraocular pressure is the fluid pressure inside the eye, which maintains the continuous production and drainage of a clear eye fluid called the aqueous humour. Normally, the eyes are good at regulating IOP, however, it can rise if something impacts the flow of fluids in and out of the eye. Overall IOP levels are determined by the balance between the production and drainage of the aqueous fluid. 

Normal Vs Elevated IOP 

Normal IOP: In healthy eyes, IOP ranges between 10 and 20 mmHg (millimetres of mercury). This level of pressure helps maintain the eye’s shape and ensure proper optical function. 

Elevated IOP: When something affects the flow of fluids in and out of the eye, excessive fluids can be produced, making IOP rise above the normal range.  High IOP can put stress on the optic nerve, leading to glaucoma. This causes the loss of peripheral vision and can progress into irreversible blindness if not treated.  

 What Influences IOP? 

There are multiple factors that impact IOP, including: 

• Genetics: A family history with glaucoma can increase likeliness of a higher IOP 

• Age: The risk of elevated IOP can increase through aging.  

• Medical conditions: Conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease can increase chances of having a high IOP. 

 How is IOP measured? 

Measuring IOP levels includes using a procedure called tonometry, which is conducted by an eyecare specialist during an eye exam. This procedure measures the pressure in your eye through flattening the cornea and measuring how much force is required. If a high level of force is needed to flatten the cornea, this means that the patient has an elevated IOP.  This procedure is done in multiple ways, such as: 

• Non-contact tonometry: This method includes using a machine to shoot a puff of air at the eye and measure the cornea’s movement, requiring no contact. 

• Contact tonometry: This involves numbing the eye with drops and pressing a tool against the cornea 

How to prevent Glaucoma by measuring IOP? 

Managing IOP is essential to prevent or slow down the development of glaucoma. Treatment options include: 

1. Medications: Having an eyedrop routine such as prostaglandin analogues helps reduce IOP by improving drainage and decreasing fluid production. 

1. Laser Therapy: Procedures such as laser trabeculoplasty help with increasing fluid outflow in open-angle glaucoma, reducing pressure. 

1. Surgery: If medications and laser therapy methods are insufficient for the patient, surgical options such as trabeculectomy or drainage implants can help lower IOP. 

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Elevated IOP 

Although medical treatments are essential, it is also important to make certain lifestyle changes to help maintain normal IOP. This includes:

1. Regular Exercise: Moderate physical activity can help reduce IOP. 

1. Healthy Diet: Having a rich diet in fruits and vegetables that are high in vitamins A and C, omega-3 fatty acids, and complex carbohydrates can support overall eye health. 

1. Avoid excessive caffeine. Decreasing caffeine intake can prevent IOP from increasing. 

Intraocular pressure is significant in eye health, and it is necessary to properly manage it to avoid the development of glaucoma. Regular eye exams are recommended for those who are at a greater risk of developing elevated IOP. If you are concerned about your eye pressure or risk of glaucoma and would like to know more, book an appointment with SA Eye Specialists today! 

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