Ocular hypertension

Increased intraocular pressure caused by fluid leakage in the eye. Although it does not cause any symptoms, people with ocular hypertension are more likely to develop glaucoma or other eye disorders.

Persistently high intraocular pressure is the most important risk factor for developing glaucoma – the higher the intraocular pressure, the higher the risk.

However, the relationship between intraocular pressure and glaucoma is complex and not yet fully understood. While some people with ocular hypertension are more prone to developing glaucoma, this is not true for the vast majority.

It is therefore important for your eye specialist to monitor your intraocular pressure closely, because if it increases, additional tests will be ordered to assess which risk group you are in for developing glaucoma.

Normally, ocular hypertension does not cause symptoms and is unlikely to affect your vision in the short term.

Fluid in the front of the eye, also known as aqueous humor, delivers nutrients and helps eliminate by-products. The pressure level in the eye (intraocular pressure) is determined by the balance between the amount of fluid produced and the amount that leaves the eye.

Most cases of ocular hypertension are caused by dysfunction or blockage of the eye drainage channels. In the absence of proper drainage, the fluid pressure becomes higher than normal, leading to an increase in intraocular pressure.

Anyone can develop ocular hypertension, but there are a number of factors that can increase the risk of developing this condition:

• Family history – family history of hypertension or glaucoma;
• Age – the likelihood of developing ocular hypertension increases with age;
• Nationality – you are more likely to get the disease if you come from African-Caribbean countries;
• Advanced myopia (myopia);
• A side effect of certain medicines that causes some people to have increased intraocular pressure;
• Eye injuries can affect intraocular pressure, even years afterwards.

During the eye examination, your eye specialist will carry out tests to check for signs of ocular hypertension or glaucoma:

• Your intraocular pressure will be measured with a tonometer. Normal intraocular pressure is between 10 mmHg and 21 mmHg. Readings above this norm indicate ocular hypertension;
• Optic nerve condition;
• A visual field test helps to examine your peripheral vision in areas where
• the onset of glaucoma;
• Signs of other eye diseases associated with high intraocular pressure.