What is High Eye Pressure? Before we delve into this topic, it’s important to understand that Intraocular Pressure (IOP) refers to the pressure caused by the production of fluid inside the eye and the changes in the volume of the surrounding muscles. Measuring this pressure is a diagnostic method for patients at risk of glaucoma. Normal IOP should be a number between 10 and 21 millimeters of mercury (mmHg). When this value increases for various reasons, the individual will be affected by high IOP, and it is essential to see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible to reduce eye damage.
What is High Eye Pressure?
Inside our eyes, there is a fluid called aqueous humor or intraocular fluid. When the drainage pathway for this fluid in the eye becomes blocked or impaired, IOP will increase. If this pressure exceeds 21 mmHg, the person is facing high eye pressure. High eye pressure can damage the optic nerve, leading to dangerous diseases such as glaucoma.
It is important to note that if treatment is not performed promptly and this issue is not properly resolved, then increased IOP can lead to irreversible vision problems and even vision loss. Therefore, it is essential that when facing such a problem, a person immediately consults an ophthalmologist to be regularly monitored and examined by them.
Symptoms of Eye Pressure in Adults
What are the symptoms of high eye pressure? This is a question people often seek an answer to. In response, it must be said that usually those affected by IOP do not notice any specific symptoms; effectively, this condition has no symptoms. They only become aware of it when they visit an ophthalmologist for an eye exam and the doctor measures their eye pressure. Therefore, regular eye examinations and check-ups by an ophthalmologist can prevent many future eye problems.
What are the Complications of High Eye Pressure?
When IOP exceeds the normal range of 10 to 21 mmHg, the eye is effectively dealing with high pressure. Since this condition has no specific symptoms, it can cause irreversible damage and even lead to the dangerous disease of glaucoma. Hence, regular examination and monitoring of IOP by an ophthalmologist can largely prevent such problems from occurring.
Factors Affecting Increased Eye Pressure
Understanding which factors influence the increase and change in eye pressure is another question that needs to be answered. This section mentions some of these factors so that by observing certain points, one can prevent or delay the occurrence of this problem.
It is important to note that IOP is constantly changing, and factors such as exercise, breathing, heart rate, or even drinking fluids can cause it to fluctuate. The key point is that pressure changes within the normal range are natural, but if IOP exceeds 21 mmHg, this issue must be taken seriously because it can cause serious eye disorders such as glaucoma.
Furthermore, the IOP of those who consume alcoholic and caffeinated beverages may change and increase due to issues like coughing, nausea, and blood pressure. Additionally, moving heavy objects and equipment can also contribute to a rise in IOP.
Factors Contributing to Increased IOP:
It is worth mentioning that high and abnormal eye pressure can result from various factors but is generally caused by one of the following:
- If intraocular fluid is produced in excess of the normal amount.
- If there is a blockage or impairment in the drainage pathway of the intraocular fluid (aqueous humor).
- Some sudden traumas to the eye from an accident or injury can also be effective in causing this issue.
- People who use certain medications, such as steroid corticosteroids, may be predisposed to experiencing eye pressure problems.
- Advanced age is another influential factor, and generally, individuals over 40 years old are more at risk for this condition.
- The occurrence of certain eye disorders like myopia (nearsightedness) and glaucoma can put a person at risk of experiencing pressure outside the normal range.
- Another important factor in this context is genetics and heredity, which can be passed down from one generation to the next.
- People with underlying diseases like diabetes may experience this condition due to changes in the nature of their blood vessels.
- Visual impairments such as pigment dispersion syndrome, pseudoexfoliation syndrome, or thin corneas can contribute to individuals facing this problem.
Given the mentioned factors, it is essential to regularly visit an ophthalmologist to prevent this issue. By examining the level of eye pressure and detecting any abnormal increase, the doctor can employ certain treatments to address it.
What are the Diagnostic Tests for Eye Pressure?
Tonometry
Tonometry is the most common test performed to measure intraocular pressure and diagnose glaucoma. The tonometry test shows eye pressure in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). If a person’s eye pressure is above 21 mmHg, they have high eye pressure. In this test, various devices are used, as described below:
- Non-Contact Tonometer (Air-Puff): In this method, a gentle jet of air is projected towards the cornea, and the degree of corneal indentation is measured. This method is quick, painless, and more comfortable for the patient.
- Contact Tonometer: In this method, a small, anesthetized tip is placed on the cornea to measure the internal eye pressure. This method is more accurate than the non-contact method.
- Applanation Tonometer: This method is the most accurate for measuring eye pressure. In this method, a small probe with a blue light is gently pressed against the surface of the cornea, and a fluorescent dye helps the doctor determine the amount of pressure to apply to the cornea.
Which Medications Raise Eye Pressure?
Excessive use of certain medications containing steroid corticosteroids can increase intraocular pressure and lead to eye diseases. Some of these medications are mentioned below:
Hydroxychloroquine:
This is one of the drugs that causes problems in the eye. It can cause damage to the retina, and it is essential for individuals who take it continuously to be regularly monitored by an ophthalmologist to control their visual field.
Viagra:
This drug, known as a sexual enhancer, can lead to vision problems and increase eye pressure. Some individuals who use this drug may experience sudden vision loss. Therefore, those who experience this problem should see a doctor immediately.
Eye Drops and Ointments:
Some eye drops and ointments containing steroid corticosteroids can cause an abnormal increase in eye pressure. Therefore, the use of such ophthalmic drugs must be under the supervision of an ophthalmologist.
Other Drugs:
Other drugs can also affect eye disorders and, in some cases, impact a person’s vision. Some of these drugs include:
- Amiodarone
- Profen
- Alprazolam and Diazepam
- Antihistamines and anti-allergy drugs
The Best Drops for Reducing Eye Pressure
One of the best drops for reducing IOP (Intraocular Pressure) is brimonidine (Brimogan), which is used for patients with open-angle glaucoma or those experiencing elevated eye pressure.
This medication reduces the amount of aqueous humor in the front of the eye and also increases the outflow of fluid from the eye. This action can lead to a reduction in IOP.
Which Foods Raise Eye Pressure?
A type of omega-3 fatty acid called Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) leads to proper retina function and helps prevent high eye pressure. Therefore, regular consumption of foods containing DHA is recommended. This beneficial acid can be found in foods such as shellfish, tuna, salmon, etc. Further explanations about beneficial foods in this regard are provided below.
Avoid Trans Fats:
Foods containing omega-3 fatty acids affect the improvement of retinal function and can lead to reduced eye pressure. These acids are abundant in foods like salmon, shellfish, etc. It is important to note that conversely, consuming foods containing trans fatty acids, such as fried foods and ice cream, is very harmful and can lead to increased eye pressure.
Limit High-Sugar Foods:
High blood sugar is a factor that contributes to increased eye pressure. Therefore, people suffering from obesity and diabetes are more at risk of developing this condition. For this reason, it is essential that these individuals follow a proper diet to prevent their insulin levels from spiking suddenly. These people should avoid eating foods like rice, pasta, bread, etc., which are high in carbohydrates, as much as possible.
Consume Foods with Zeaxanthin and Lutein:
Including foods such as kale, green leafy vegetables, rose petals (Note: likely refers to certain edible flowers or a mistranslation; often spinach, collards are cited), broccoli, etc., in your diet can be effective in controlling IOP and largely prevent its risks.
In addition to all the points mentioned, another factor that affects reducing body insulin levels and consequently reducing eye pressure is exercise. At least 30 minutes of exercise per day significantly reduces the risk of involvement.
Home Remedies for Eye Pressure
There are some simple home remedies that can be used to treat IOP. Some of these methods are mentioned below.
Massage:
For this purpose, you can massage your eyelids daily to increase blood circulation in this area and also stimulate the tear glands. This will result in reduced eye pressure.
Sun Exposure:
Another method to reduce eye pressure is sun exposure. This causes the muscles around the eyes to relax and increases blood circulation.
Eye Exercises:
Another thing that can improve eye pressure is eye exercises. Regular exercise strengthens the muscles in this area and improves blood circulation.
Cold and Warm Compresses:
Cold and warm eye compresses can reduce eye strain and relax the eye muscles. This can also help reduce IOP.
Chamomile Tea:
One traditional method that can be used for quick IOP treatment is consuming chamomile tea. Because chamomile is known as a soothing herb, it can also be effective in quickly reducing eye pressure.
Rosewater:
Rosewater is another traditional way to treat eye pressure. Do this by placing a cotton pad soaked in rosewater on your eyes twice a day until the problem improves after a while.
Other Items:
In addition to the above, using substances like whole milk and cucumber can also be effective in this regard, reducing inflammation and IOP.
Does Stress Affect Eye Pressure?
In answer to this question, it must be said that the answer is positive, and stress and eye pressure are directly related. Results of recent research in this area show that stress and also high blood pressure significantly affect eye health and can even involve a person in disorders like glaucoma by increasing eye pressure.
Conclusion
Various factors affect eye pressure levels and cause its abnormal increase. Therefore, it is essential for people over 40 to be sensitive to this issue and make corrective changes to their diet to prevent such problems. It is also worth mentioning that regular exercise and stress reduction are effective in improving this matter.
Mahan Eye Clinic, as one of the exemplary centers in the country, operates in the field of manufacturing ocular prosthetics (artificial eyes). You can visit the center in person at the address provided in the contact Us section, or get in touch with our experts via the numbers 00982166889076 and 00989128357509.
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