Eye Pressure

Eye pressure matters more than you might think. High or low pressure can affect vision fast, but most people don't notice early signs. If you've been told your eye pressure is off, here's a clear, practical guide to what that means, what to watch for, and what you can do right now.

What is eye pressure? It's the fluid pressure inside your eye, also called intraocular pressure or IOP. The eye makes and drains a clear fluid constantly. When drainage is blocked or production rises, pressure climbs. High IOP raises the risk of glaucoma, a leading cause of sight loss. Low pressure can cause eye pain, blurry vision, or lead to other problems after surgery or injury.

How do you check it? Only an eye doctor can measure IOP accurately with special tools. Common tests include tonometry and pachymetry. These are quick and painless. If you have risk factors — family history of glaucoma, short vision changes, diabetes, or past eye trauma — get tested yearly or as recommended.

Symptoms to watch for. Many people with slightly high pressure have no symptoms at first. But look out for persistent headaches, halos around lights, sudden blurred vision, eye pain, or redness. A sudden spike in pressure often causes sharp pain, nausea, or severe vision loss — that's an emergency. Low pressure may feel like dry, aching eyes or fluctuating vision.

Simple steps to help manage eye pressure. Follow prescribed eye drops exactly; missing doses can let pressure rebound. Keep regular appointments — pressure can change without warning. Avoid heavy weightlifting or inverted yoga positions if your doctor warns against them. Stay hydrated, but avoid large, rapid fluid loads. Control blood pressure and blood sugar — general health affects eye pressure too.

Medications and treatments. Eye drops are the first line: prostaglandins, beta blockers, alpha agonists, or carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. If drops aren't enough, doctors may recommend laser treatments to improve drainage or surgery to create new outflow paths. Ask your doctor about risks and recovery time, and discuss how each option fits your life.

What to ask your eye doctor. How often should I test my IOP? Is my corneal thickness affecting the reading? Could my medications be causing pressure changes? What lifestyle steps help me most? Getting clear answers makes it easier to follow a plan.

When to get help now. Sudden vision loss, intense eye pain, severe headache with visual changes, or nausea plus eye pain — go to emergency care or call your provider. For ongoing concerns, schedule a clinic visit; earlier treatment often protects vision.

Keeping an eye on eye pressure is practical and often simple. With the right tests and a clear plan, you can protect your sight and live normally. Don't ignore a warning; small steps now can prevent big problems later.

Track your readings in a simple notebook or phone app, list all medicines and supplements, and bring them to appointments. Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce strain and protect healing eyes daily.