An optimal eye pressure is vital for the healthy functioning of the eyes.
Any imbalance in this pressure may lead to certain eye-related discomforts.
However, it is vital to note that the optimal eye pressure range is not a constant number and varies in individuals.
This is because there are several physiological factors that may determine how much pressure an eye can handle.
Let us proceed and learn more about the eye pressure range.
Eye Pressure Range
Eye pressure, also known as Intraocular Pressure (IOP), is a measure of the internal pressure in the eye.
Our eyes are filled with aqueous humor – a watery liquid that serves various functions such as lubrication, waste removal, and protection of the eye.
The constant production and drainage of this liquid determines the IOP.
However, if there is an imbalance in the production or drainage of aqueous humor, your eye pressure may drift from the normal eye pressure range.
It is vital to know that this condition may not have any noticeable symptoms in its initial stage.
However, it might lead to serious eye discomfort and symptoms, such as pressure behind eyes, if the treatment is not received on time.
Therefore, it is important to know about eye pressure range and when to seek help.
Regular eye checkups help detect changes in the eye pressure at an early stage.
If you are diagnosed with high eye pressure, your doctor may prescribe Glaucoma eye drops to reduce the eye pressure.
These eye drops typically consist of ingredients like Bimatoprost, Latanoprost, and Travoprost to treat the condition.
For tips to lower eye pressure, read How to Lower Eye Pressure: Treating Glaucoma Effectively.
Normal Eye Pressure Range
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), the normal eye pressure range is considered between 10-20 mmHg.
However, there is no ‘normal’ eye pressure range that can be defined for every individual.
According to a study published in PLoS One, IOP depends on various factors, including an individual’s age and blood pressure.
Factors such as the thickness of the cornea and the axial length of the eye can also have an impact on the measurement of eye pressure.
Therefore, these factors must be considered before determining the normal eye pressure range.
High Eye Pressure Range
When the IOP is too high, it is known as Ocular Hypertension (OH).
OH may not have any observable symptoms, but if left untreated, it may turn into Glaucoma.
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases characterized by damage to the optic nerve, which may result from elevated eye pressure.
According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), Glaucoma is associated with eye pressure higher than 21mmHg.
It is common for individuals to get confused between Ocular Hypertension and Glaucoma, as these conditions may seem similar.
However, they both are different eye conditions. To gain more clarity on these eye conditions, read Ocular Hypertension vs. Glaucoma- Understanding the Difference.
Low Eye Pressure Range
When the internal eye pressure is too low, this condition is known as Ocular Hypotony.
According to research, IOP below 8mmHg may be defined as low eye pressure.
A major decrease in eye pressure may lead to blurred vision and eye pain.
In severe cases of low eye pressure, the retina tissues might get affected, leading to Retinal Detachment.
What to Do if You Have High or Low Eye Pressure
It is vital to seek immediate treatment from a certified eye doctor when you are diagnosed with high or low eye pressure.
Depending on your condition, your doctor may prescribe medications such as eye drops, oral pills, or surgeries to manage eye pressure.
High Eye Pressure Treatment
Eye drops are generally the first-line treatment prescribed for high eye pressure.
Eye drops, such as Bimatoprost, either help drain the excess fluid or decrease the production of the fluid in the eye.
For mild cases of Ocular Hypertension, lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, proper hydration, and eye exercises might be helpful to lower eye pressure.
In severe cases, lifestyle modifications may not cause a significant change in the IOP.
In such cases, your doctor may prescribe laser therapies or surgeries to treat the condition.
Therefore, it is advised to visit a trusted ophthalmologist to manage Ocular Hypertension effectively.
To explore food options to reduce eye pressure, read Foods to Reduce Eye Pressure: A Comprehensive Guide for Healthy Vision.
Low Eye Pressure Treatment
The treatment for low eye pressure starts by determining the underlying cause, which could be previous surgeries or medical conditions for some individuals.
Excessive leakage of fluid might be one of the reasons for the decrease in eye pressure.
Your doctor may suggest special contact lenses to patch the leak in such cases.
Research is still ongoing on medications to increase eye pressure.
However, these medications have potential side effects that make their use impractical.
In severe cases of low eye pressure, your doctor may prescribe steroids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents to reduce the symptoms.
Conclusion
Eye pressure is a fundamental factor in determining the eye health of an individual.
The normal eye pressure range is considered to be 10-20mmHg.
However, it may vary for each individual depending on various physiological factors.
High eye pressure conditions may result in Ocular Hypertension, which can turn into Glaucoma if not treated well.
Low eye pressure may cause eye discomfort, eventually leading to Retinal Detachment.
It is important to get your eyes tested regularly by a certified eye doctor to determine your eye pressure.
Early detection of high or low eye pressure can help in effective treatment of the condition.
For low eye pressure, doctors may prescribe special contact lenses and medications.
In the case of high eye pressure, the treatment includes eye drops, therapies, or surgeries, depending on the severity of the condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the normal eye pressure range?
10-20mmHg is considered the normal eye pressure range. However, this range may vary for different individuals based on various factors such as blood pressure and age.
How can I increase eye pressure?
There are no proven ways to increase eye pressure naturally. It is important to consult a doctor if you are diagnosed with low eye pressure. Depending on the severity, your doctor may suggest medications or surgeries to treat the condition.
Is 22 eye pressure OK?
No, 22mmHg eye pressure falls in the danger zone of the eye pressure range. A pressure greater than 21mmHg is considered to be too high. Consult your doctor for an effective diagnosis if your eye pressure is above the normal range.
Can eye pressure be reduced on its own?
Yes, eye pressure can be reduced on its own without medical intervention. However, you may have to make certain lifestyle changes to decrease your eye pressure, such as incorporating proper hydration and eye exercises.
What is the danger zone for eye pressure?
Generally, eye pressure above 21mmHg and below 8mmHg is considered dangerous, as it may lead to severe eye problems. However, this range differs for different individuals depending upon various physiological factors. It is advised to seek immediate treatment if you have high or low eye pressure.
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