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Ocular Hypertension
Ocular hypertension occurs when the pressure in your eyes is above the range considered normal with no detectable changes in vision or damage to the structure of your eyes. The term is used to distinguish people with elevated pressure from those with glaucoma, a serious eye disease that causes damage to the optic nerve and vision loss.
Ocular hypertension can occur in people of all ages, but it occurs more frequently in African Americans, people over age 40 and people with family histories of ocular hypertension and/or glaucoma. It is also more common in people who are very nearsighted or who have diabetes.
Ocular hypertension has no noticeable signs or symptoms. If the pressure is too high there may be pain on eye movement or touch.
Dr. Craig can check the pressure in your eyes with an instrument called a tonometer. He can also examine the inner structures of the eyes to assess overall eye health.
Not all people with ocular hypertension will develop glaucoma. However, people with ocular hypertension have an increased risk of glaucoma. Therefore, if you have ocular hypertension, it is essential to have regular comprehensive eye examinations.
No. There is no cure for ocular hypertension. However, with careful monitoring and treatment, when necessary, you can decrease the risk of damage to your eyes.
Risk factors for ocular hypertension include race, age and family history. It is known to be caused by:
Increased fluid (aqueous) production in the eye
Inadequate aqueous drainage
Steroid usage, as well as similar types of medication
Eye trauma
Diagnosis is usually done by Doctor Craig, who will measure and confirm that your eye pressure is high, when compared to the normal range.
Glaucoma surgery eye drops are ineffective in reducing eye pressure. Treatment options for ocular hypertension include:
Rx eye drops to reduce pressure
Monitoring and taking action if signs of developing glaucoma occur
The best way to avoid preventable vision loss is to schedule an annual comprehensive eye exam.
You deserve the best possible eyesight. Get the crispest, clearest vision by scheduling a comprehensive eye exam at Family Eye Care Center in Elkins, WV. We offer diagnostic testing, corrective lenses and ocular hyertension management for you and family members of all ages from birth onward. To learn more and schedule an appointment, call: (304) 636-9111.
Much of the educational information provided on this page has been adapted with permission from copyrighted resources provided courtesy of American Optometric Association (AOA) for use by its members. AOA is the leading authority on quality eye health and vision care, representing doctors of optometry and optometric professionals throughout the United States.
No information on this page, or any other part of this website, may be copied or shared in any manner without the prior written consent of the copyright holder(s). The copyright holder of the educational content on this page is American Optometric Association. The copyright holder of the content of this website is Family Eye Care Center – Elkins, West Virginia.
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