Intraocular Pressure and Glaucoma
Intraocular pressure (IOP) is the pressure caused by the fluid inside the eye that helps maintain the shape of the eye. The level of pressure inside the eyes depends on:
- How much fluid is produced inside the eye.
- Whether fluid can travel normally through the eye.
- How well the fluid is removed from the eye.
The pressure within the eyes varies during the day. Normally, the pressure inside the eye ranges from 10 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) to 21 mm Hg.
It's important for adults to have eye exams on a regular basis to check for problems. Regular eye exams are critical for detecting: Glaucoma Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) Cataracts Diabetic retinopathy But everyone needs regular eye exams. This is particularly important if you have risk factors or a family history of eye problems. Children need their vision checked at 6 months, 3 years, and before first grade. Adults should see an eye doctor at least every two years and...
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- Intraocular pressure can vary from person to person.
- Not all people with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) have increased pressure inside the eye. As many as 40% to 50% of cases of OAG may occur without increased pressure inside the eye, and most people with elevated pressures will never get glaucoma.1, 2
Citations
Shah R, Wormald R (2009). Glaucoma, search date November 2007. Online version of BMJ Clinical Evidence: http://www.clinicalevidence.com.
Trobe JD (2006). Principal ophthalmic conditions. Physician's Guide to Eye Care, 3rd ed., chap. 6, pp. 107-111. San Francisco: American Academy of Ophthalmology.
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