Ocular Hypertension

Ocular hypertension, which has no noticeable signs or symptoms, is an increase in the pressure in the eyes above the normal range with no detectable changes in vision or damage to the structure of the eyes. The term is used to distinguish people with elevated pressure from those with glaucoma, a serious eye disease that causes damage to the optic nerve and vision loss.

Ocular hypertension can occur in people of all ages, but it occurs more frequently in African Americans, those over age 40 and those with family histories of ocular hypertension and/or glaucoma. It is also more common in those who are very nearsighted or who have diabetes.

Optometrists can check the pressure in the eyes with an instrument called a tonometer and can examine the inner structures of the eyes to assess overall eye health. Not all people with ocular hypertension will develop glaucoma; however, there is an increased risk of glaucoma among those with ocular hypertension so regular comprehensive optometric examinations are essential to overall eye health.

There is no cure for ocular hypertension but with careful monitoring and treatment when needed, the risk of damage to the eyes can be decreased.

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