Ocular hypertension

What is Ocular hypertension?

Ocular hypertension is where the eye pressure or intraocular pressure is unusually high (greater than 21 mm Hg). Ocular hypertension is not a problem but it is associated with glaucoma.

Causes of Ocular hypertension

Ocular hypertension is common in people with family history of ocular hypertension or glaucoma, diabetes or severe long sight.

Ocular hypertension is where the introcular pressure is increased and may be due to the production of excessive aqueous fluid or inadequate drainage within the eye. Causes of elevated intraocular pressure include certain medications (such as steroids).

Diagnosis of Ocular hypertension

Ocular hypertension does not have any noticeable symptoms, and as it is easy to detect it is important to have regular eye check ups.

Intraocular pressure can be tested for with a tonometer.

Treatments for Ocular hypertension

Medication can be prvided to lower the pressure to prevent any further damage to the eye. Not all people who suffer from ocular hypertension will develop glaucoma, but there is an increased risk of glaucoma.