By Dr Peculiar Idiagbonya (OD)
Eye pressure, or intraocular pressure (IOP), plays a vital role in eye health and is closely linked to glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible vision loss. Understanding IOP and its management is crucial for preserving sight. SpecSMART Eye Clinic in Ikeja, Lagos provides expert assessment and care to help monitor and control eye pressure.
What Is Eye Pressure (IOP)?
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IOP is the fluid pressure inside the eye, maintained by the production and drainage of aqueous humor.
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Normal range is typically 10–21 mmHg, but what’s normal varies by individual.
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Balanced IOP keeps the eye’s shape and enables proper light focus.
The Connection Between Eye Pressure and Glaucoma
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Elevated IOP can damage the optic nerve fibers, leading to vision loss starting at the peripheral field and progressing to central vision.
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Damage occurs silently with no pain or redness, earning glaucoma the title “silent thief of sight.”
Causes of Elevated Eye Pressure
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Blockage in the eye’s drainage system
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Age-related changes in fluid dynamics
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Family history of glaucoma
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Medical conditions like diabetes and hypertension
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Eye trauma or prolonged steroid use
Is High Eye Pressure Always Glaucoma?
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No, some develop glaucoma at normal pressure (normal-tension glaucoma).
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Comprehensive assessment beyond pressure measurement is essential.
How Glaucoma Is Diagnosed at SpecSMART Eye Clinic
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Tonometry: precise measurement of eye pressure
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Optic nerve evaluation: imaging to detect nerve damage or cupping
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Visual field testing: detects blind spots in peripheral vision
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Optical coherence tomography (OCT): detailed imaging of optic nerve and retina layers
Managing High Eye Pressure and Glaucoma
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Prescription eye drops to reduce pressure
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Laser therapy to improve fluid drainage (e.g., SLT)
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Surgery for advanced cases
SpecSMART Eye Clinic’s optometrists collaborate with ophthalmologists for seamless patient care.
Why Early Detection Matters
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Glaucoma’s silent progression often delays diagnosis until vision loss is significant.
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Risk factors: over 40, family history, diabetes, hypertension, eye trauma.
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Regular exams allow early intervention to preserve vision.
Book Your Glaucoma Screening Today
SpecSMART Eye Clinic offers comprehensive eye pressure checks, glaucoma screenings, and personalized management plans to protect your sight for life.
FAQs
What is intraocular pressure (IOP)?
The fluid pressure inside the eye essential for eye shape and function.
How is eye pressure related to glaucoma?
High IOP can damage the optic nerve leading to glaucoma and vision loss.
Can glaucoma occur with normal eye pressure?
Yes, normal-tension glaucoma damages the optic nerve despite normal pressure.
How is glaucoma diagnosed?
Using tonometry, optic nerve imaging, visual field testing, and OCT scans.
What treatments reduce eye pressure?
Medications, laser therapies, and surgery help manage IOP.
📍Contact SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja
Ile-Oja Mall, Opebi Link Road, Ikeja
📞 0703 839 1197
📍Learn More
Our 5 steps eye test process explained in more detail.