A significant increase in your eye or intraocular pressure can result in ocular hypertension. The normal eye pressure is between 10 to 21 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). This eye condition occurs if you have an intraocular pressure higher than 21 mm Hg. Keep in mind that ocular hypertension could contribute to the development of glaucoma.
Keep reading to learn more about ocular hypertension.
Elevated Aqueous Production
In the back of the eye behind the iris is a clear fluid called aqueous humor. It nourishes and brings oxygen to the lens. Your intraocular pressure will increase if you produce more aqueous than your eyes can drain.
Poor Aqueous Drainage
Problems with your eye’s drainage could result in the accumulation of aqueous humor. It means even if you have enough aqueous, ocular hypertension can still occur if the fluid doesn’t drain properly.
Trauma and Existing Eye Conditions
Injuries can disrupt aqueous production and drainage, resulting in ocular hypertension. Never take eye injuries lightly because their effects could last for months to years. Moreover, existing eye conditions can also elevate your eye pressure. Corneal arcus, pseudoexfoliation syndrome and pigment dispersion are linked with ocular hypertension.
Medication
Be mindful of your medications because they can increase intraocular pressure. For instance, steroidal eye drops can have this effect.
If you are 40 and older, you are at higher risk for ocular hypertension. It’s the same if you have a family history of this eye condition. The risk of ocular hypertension is also higher in people with thin central corneas and extremely nearsighted individuals.
Your eye doctor will prescribe special eye drops to reduce your eye pressure. Healthy lifestyle switches could help maintain your eye pressure. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet and drink enough water. Regular exercise and reducing caffeine consumption are also great for your eye health.
Routine eye exams go a long way in the early detection and treatment of vision-threatening eye conditions. At Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic, we are passionate about providing you with quality eye care services. Call us at (425) 771-8472 (Lynnwood) or (425) 485-0430 (Bothell). You may also fill out our online form to learn more about our services.