Intraocular Pressure

Intraocular pressure (IOP) is the fluid pressure within the eye, crucial for maintaining its shape and health. It's a delicate equilibrium between the production and drainage of aqueous humor, the clear liquid that fills the eye's front chamber. Elevated IOP is a red flag for glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), normal IOP ranges from 10 to 21 mmHg. Various factors, like age, genetics, and certain medical conditions, influence these levels. Regular IOP checks are vital because high pressure can harm the optic nerve, leading to vision loss. Treatments for elevated IOP aim to lower it, often through medications, laser procedures, or surgery to enhance fluid drainage. Detecting and managing high IOP early can help preserve vision and mitigate glaucoma-related blindness.