By The phrase ocular hypertension can be referred to as any condition wherein the compression within the eye, known as intraocular pressure, is more significant than expected. Millimeters of mercury are utilized to quantify pressure in the eye (mm Hg). Ocular hypertension is categorized as an intraocular pressure that is above the normal which is 21mm Hg. Healthy ocular pressure ranges from 10 to 21 mm Hg.
Ocular hypertension should not be regarded as an illness in and of itself. Instead, ocular hypertension is a phrase used to characterize those who are more susceptible to developing glaucoma than the general population. As a result, an individual with ocular hypertension is someone who the glaucoma specialist believes has a chance to develop glaucoma due to high pressure inside the eyes. A glaucoma-damaged optic nerve may be discovered during a comprehensive eye exam.
Causes
An imbalance in the production and outflow of fluid in the eye causes high intraocular pressure (aqueous humor). The areas that ordinarily drain fluid from the eye’s interior are not working correctly. Due to clogged drainage canals, more fluid is constantly being created, but it cannot be evacuated. This causes an increase in the volume of fluid inside the eye, which raises the pressure.
Risk Factors
Medical professionals and researchers are still studying the risk factors for ocular hypertension and how to prevent the condition. Some of the most common risk factors for ocular hypertension include:
Age: The risk of developing ocular hypertension increases as you age.
Gender: Women are at a higher risk of developing ocular hypertension than men.
Family history: If your parents or other close family members have ocular hypertension, you may be at higher risk of developing the condition.
Obesity: Obesity is a risk factor for ocular hypertension.
High blood pressure: If you have high blood pressure, you may be at risk of developing ocular hypertension.
Diabetes: People with type 2 diabetes are at risk of developing ocular hypertension.
Excessive alcohol consumption: Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can increase your risk of ocular hypertension.
Poor diet: Eating a poor diet can increase your risk of ocular hypertension.
Symptoms
The majority of persons with ocular hypertension have no symptoms. As a result, routine eye examinations with an eye specialist like Eduardo Besser, are critical to rule out any leading cause of blindness caused by high blood pressure.
Treatment
Ocular hypertension can be treated with pressure-lowering medications if indicated. Optometrists and ophthalmologists can monitor the pressure in your eyes and prescribe medications as needed. There are also laser and other surgical treatments available to lower the pressure in the eye.
If you have ocular hypertension and diabetes, your doctor may prescribe blood pressure-lowering medications. Nutrition can also have an impact on blood pressure. Foods rich in potassium, like fruits and vegetables, may be beneficial. Sodium intake should be limited to less than 2.300 milligrams per day. A diet high in calcium has also been shown to reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure.
The objective of medical therapy is to minimize eye pressure before it triggers glaucoma-related vision loss. Individuals who are regarded to be at the highest risk of getting glaucoma and who exhibit symptoms of damage to the optic nerve are often put on medical therapy.
If you notice changes in your vision or experience eye pain, see your eye doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment of ocular hypertension can prevent vision loss. Regular eye exams can also detect ocular hypertension and help your doctor determine the best course of treatment for you.
