High Eye Pressure

Pressure produced due to the presence of aqueous humor, the thick watery fluid in the eye, is referred to as 'eye pressure' or 'intra-ocular pressure (IOP)' or 'ocular pressure'.

Aqueous humor is the liquid that is found in the space between the eye lens and the cornea. It nourishes and protects the eye. It also helps maintain the shape of the eye. Slight change in the production, or drainage of aqueous humor can affect IOP significantly. Optic nerve being sensitive to minute changes in IOP, can get damaged due to the elevated IOP.

Eye pressure is measured in 'millimeters of mercury' (mmHg), and the device used to measure this pressure is called tonometer. The procedure of measuring eye pressure does not cause any pain or discomfort because doctors use eye drops to numb the eyes. Normal eye pressure range is 10-20 mmHg. If the IOP higher than 20 mmHg, it is referred to as high eye pressure or ocular hypertension, which is considered as one of the important risk factors for glaucoma.

Improper ratio of the production and drainage of aqueous humor is the main cause of higher than normal eye pressure. Too much fluid in the eye can lead to optic nerve damage.

The various causes of this condition are enlisted here:

• Dysfunction of drainage channels often lead to increased amount of aqueous humor in the eye, which increases the pressure in the eyes.
• Excessive consumption of caffeine may also lead to increase in the IOP.

• Normal eye pressure is influenced by heart rate and respiration. Therefore, use of certain medicines like steroids, which are used to treat asthma must be avoided.
• Some physical activities like lifting heavy objects or standing upside down, can also increase eye pressure temporarily.

• It is believed that psychological stress plays an important role in increasing the ocular pressure.
• Defective eye structure, eye infections, inflammation of the eye due to various eye diseases, and eye injuries may result in high IOP.

• Family history or genetic factors also play an important role in eye pressure problems.
• Apart from this, eye pressure increases naturally with increase in age.

Therefore, proper eye care is essential to enjoy unaffected vision.

Usually, in the early stages no symptoms are noticed by people who have high IOP. However, elderly are especially at higher risk of developing this condition. Pain behind eye, headache, blurred vision, reddening of the eye, or inflammation may be sometimes noticed. Eye pain due to increased pressure in the eye requires prompt medical attention.

Some people experience gradual loss of vision while some may experience sudden loss of vision. Since no symptoms are noticed in early stages, high IOP is many times detected when serious problem like loss of vision is experienced by the person. Very high ocular pressure may result in nausea and vomiting.

There can be difference in the eye pressures of two eyes also. It can cause glaucoma, iritis, or retinal detachment.

Prescribed medicines help lower the eye pressure. Simple cardiovascular exercises like walking, jogging, and running can help regulate the pressure. Yoga and aerobics also help maintain the normal pressure. Optic nerve damage is usually irreversible.

Increased pressure after cataract surgery is controlled with the help of eye drops, a laser procedure, pills, or surgery. Beta blockers help prevent excessive production of eye fluid. Surgery may be performed in extreme cases.

Heart disease, diabetes, constriction of the blood vessels, high blood pressure, obesity, alcohol abuse, and excessive smoking are all considered as risk factors for high IOP. Prompt treatment of diseases and disorders is therefore essential to prevent this condition.

An increase in eye pressure can eventually damage the optic nerve and can lead to complete blindness. Regular eye check-up can help detect asymptomatic eye problems and save vision. You may also visit a nearby clinic for eye check-up, twice a year, to ensure that you do not have any threatening issues.