What causes pressure behind the eyes. How to recognize symptoms of eye pressure. When should you see a doctor for eye pressure. What are the treatment options for eye pressure.

Common Causes of Pressure Behind the Eyes

Experiencing pressure behind the eyes can be uncomfortable and concerning. This sensation may stem from various underlying conditions, ranging from minor issues to more serious health problems. Understanding the potential causes is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Headaches and Eye Pressure

One of the most common causes of pressure behind the eyes is headaches. Different types of headaches can manifest this symptom:

• Tension headaches: Often described as a tight band around the head
• Migraines: Can cause throbbing pain and sensitivity to light
• Sinus headaches: Typically accompanied by congestion and facial pain

Are certain activities or foods triggering your headaches? Keeping a headache diary can help identify patterns and potential triggers, aiding in more effective management and treatment.

Sinus Infections and Eye Pressure

Sinusitis, or inflammation of the sinus cavities, can lead to a feeling of pressure behind the eyes. This occurs due to the proximity of the sinuses to the eye area, particularly the maxillary sinuses located below the eyes.

Can sinus infections cause vision problems? While rare, severe or untreated sinus infections may potentially affect vision. If you experience changes in vision along with sinus symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Dental Issues and Their Impact on Eye Pressure

Surprisingly, dental problems can sometimes manifest as pressure behind the eyes. This phenomenon is known as referred pain, where discomfort in one area is felt in another part of the body.

Bite Alignment and Jaw Issues

Misaligned teeth or jaw problems can lead to strain on facial muscles, potentially causing headaches that feel like pressure behind the eyes. Symptoms may include:

• Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Pain when touching the head or scalp

How can dental issues be addressed to alleviate eye pressure? A comprehensive dental exam can help identify bite alignment problems. Treatment options may include orthodontic interventions, physical therapy, or the use of a night guard to prevent teeth grinding.

Ocular Conditions Causing Eye Pressure

While many cases of eye pressure are related to external factors, some ocular conditions can also be responsible for this sensation.

Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension

Contrary to what some might expect, high eye pressure (ocular hypertension) typically doesn’t cause a feeling of pressure behind the eyes. However, it’s a serious condition that can lead to glaucoma if left untreated.

Why is regular eye examination crucial for detecting glaucoma? Glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Regular comprehensive eye exams allow for early detection and management of elevated intraocular pressure, potentially preventing vision loss.

Optic Neuritis

Optic neuritis, an inflammation of the optic nerve, can cause pain and pressure behind the eyes. This condition is often associated with multiple sclerosis but can occur independently as well.

What are the symptoms of optic neuritis? Common signs include:

• Eye pain, especially with eye movement
• Vision loss in one eye
• Color vision changes
• Flashing lights in the affected eye

Lifestyle Factors Contributing to Eye Pressure

Certain lifestyle habits and environmental factors can contribute to the sensation of pressure behind the eyes.

Digital Eye Strain

In our increasingly digital world, prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. This condition can cause a feeling of pressure or discomfort behind the eyes.

How can digital eye strain be prevented? Implementing the 20-20-20 rule (taking a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes) and ensuring proper ergonomics can help reduce eye strain.

Stress and Eye Pressure

High levels of stress can manifest physically in various ways, including tension headaches that may feel like pressure behind the eyes.

What stress-reduction techniques can help alleviate eye pressure? Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and regular physical activity can help manage stress levels and potentially reduce associated eye discomfort.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Eye Pressure

While occasional feelings of pressure behind the eyes may not be cause for immediate concern, certain situations warrant prompt medical attention.

Red Flag Symptoms

Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Sudden, severe eye pain
• Rapid vision changes
• Eye pressure accompanied by fever, stiff neck, or severe headache
• Eye pressure following head trauma

Why is it crucial not to ignore persistent eye pressure? Chronic eye pressure could be a sign of an underlying condition that requires treatment. Ignoring symptoms may lead to more serious complications or potential vision loss.

Diagnostic Approaches for Eye Pressure

When investigating the cause of eye pressure, healthcare professionals may employ various diagnostic techniques.

Comprehensive Eye Examination

A thorough eye exam is often the first step in diagnosing the cause of eye pressure. This may include:

• Visual acuity tests
• Tonometry to measure intraocular pressure
• Ophthalmoscopy to examine the back of the eye
• Visual field tests to check for peripheral vision loss

What information should you provide during an eye exam? Be prepared to discuss your medical history, any medications you’re taking, and a detailed description of your symptoms, including when they started and any factors that seem to worsen or alleviate them.

Additional Diagnostic Tests

Depending on the suspected cause, your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests such as:

• Imaging studies (CT scan, MRI)
• Allergy tests
• Blood tests to check for underlying health conditions

Treatment Options for Eye Pressure

The treatment for eye pressure varies depending on the underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:

Medications

Various medications may be prescribed to address eye pressure and its causes:

• Pain relievers for headaches
• Antibiotics for sinus infections
• Eye drops to reduce intraocular pressure in cases of glaucoma
• Corticosteroids for optic neuritis

How long does it typically take for medications to alleviate eye pressure? The timeline for relief can vary depending on the cause and the specific medication. Some treatments may provide rapid relief, while others may take several days or weeks to show significant improvement.

Lifestyle Modifications

In many cases, simple lifestyle changes can help reduce eye pressure:

• Proper hydration
• Regular exercise
• Adequate sleep
• Stress management techniques
• Limiting screen time and practicing good digital hygiene

What dietary changes might help reduce eye pressure? While diet alone may not cure eye pressure, certain foods rich in vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids may support overall eye health. Additionally, reducing sodium intake can help manage conditions like hypertension that may contribute to eye pressure.

Prevention Strategies for Eye Pressure

While not all causes of eye pressure are preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

Regular Eye Check-ups

Routine comprehensive eye exams can help detect and address potential issues before they become more serious. How often should you have your eyes examined? The American Optometric Association recommends adults aged 18-64 have an eye exam at least every two years, and annually for those 65 and older or with risk factors for eye disease.

Ergonomic Considerations

Proper ergonomics can help prevent digital eye strain and associated pressure:

• Position your screen at arm’s length and slightly below eye level
• Use proper lighting to reduce glare
• Take regular breaks from screen time
• Consider using blue light filtering glasses or screen protectors

How can you create an eye-friendly work environment? In addition to ergonomic considerations, ensure your workspace has good air quality and appropriate humidity levels to prevent eye dryness and irritation.

Stress Management

Effective stress management can help prevent tension headaches and associated eye pressure. Consider incorporating relaxation techniques into your daily routine:

• Mindfulness meditation
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Yoga or tai chi
• Regular physical exercise

What role does sleep play in managing eye pressure? Adequate, quality sleep is crucial for overall health and can help reduce stress levels. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and maintain a consistent sleep schedule.

Long-term Management of Chronic Eye Pressure

For individuals dealing with chronic conditions that cause eye pressure, long-term management strategies are essential.

Collaborative Care Approach

Managing chronic eye pressure often requires a team of healthcare professionals, which may include:

• Ophthalmologists or optometrists
• Primary care physicians
• Neurologists
• ENT specialists
• Dentists

How can you ensure effective communication between your healthcare providers? Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, treatments, and any questions or concerns. Share this information with all your healthcare providers to ensure coordinated care.

Monitoring and Adjusting Treatment

Chronic conditions often require ongoing monitoring and adjustment of treatment plans. This may involve:

• Regular follow-up appointments
• Periodic testing to assess treatment efficacy
• Adjusting medications or treatment approaches as needed

What should you do if your current treatment plan isn’t providing adequate relief? Don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider. They may need to adjust your treatment plan or explore alternative options to better manage your symptoms.

Lifestyle Adaptations

Living with chronic eye pressure may require long-term lifestyle adaptations:

• Developing consistent sleep and exercise routines
• Learning to recognize and manage stress triggers
• Maintaining a balanced diet that supports eye health
• Staying informed about your condition and treatment options

How can support groups benefit individuals with chronic eye pressure? Connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide emotional support, practical tips, and a sense of community. Many organizations offer support groups for specific eye conditions or chronic pain management.

In conclusion, understanding the various causes of eye pressure and recognizing when to seek medical attention is crucial for maintaining eye health. By working closely with healthcare professionals and implementing appropriate lifestyle changes, most individuals can effectively manage eye pressure and maintain their quality of life. Remember, your eyes are precious – don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you experience persistent or concerning symptoms.

Why Is There a Feeling of Pressure Behind My Eye?

By Allie Johnson; reviewed by Sonia Kelley, OD, MS

Why do I feel pressure behind my eyes?

Causes of pressure behind the eyes can range from everyday health issues like tension headaches or sinus infections to serious eye problems that require immediate treatment to avoid loss of vision. If you have a feeling of pressure behind one or both of your eyes, it’s important to see a doctor.

Causes of pressure behind the eyes

A feeling of pressure behind the eyes is different from eye pain. Depending on the cause, eye pain may feel like a sharp pain or a dull ache in or around the eye, or a burning sensation in the eye. But pressure behind the eye may feel like a throbbing, squeezing or tightness in the head just behind the eye sockets.

There are a variety of causes of pressure behind the eyes, including:

It may surprise you, but high eye pressure (ocular hypertension) generally is not one of the causes of pressure behind the eye. This dangerous condition can lead to glaucoma but often has no symptoms. Although, if there is a severe increase in intraocular pressure, there may be pain around the eyes or when you move your eyes. 

This is why it’s so important to get comprehensive eye exams regularly. 

Your eye doctor or family doctor can help you find out why you have pressure behind the eyes and provide treatment strategies. In some cases, they may need to refer you to another health professional such as a dentist or an ENT (ear, nose and throat) specialist.

Headaches and pressure behind the eyes

Headaches can cause different types of pain and pressure in the head, including a feeling of pressure behind one or both eyes. The type and location of pressure or pain will depend on the type of headache and the person.

There are many types of headaches, but tension headaches and migraines are two common types that can cause pressure behind the eyes. Sinus headaches (see below) can also cause this type of feeling in the head.

Symptoms of a migraine may include:

In addition to these symptoms, some patients with migraines may experience a visual migraine that can cause temporary vision changes in both eyes.

Symptoms of a tension headache may include:

• Dull pressure in the head.

• Pain in the pattern of a band around the head

• Tension in the neck and shoulders.

Tension headaches can be triggered by alcohol use, stress, digital eye strain and even a sinus infection.

Treatment for headaches will vary based on the type of headache and symptoms. An over-the-counter pain reliever may work for some types of headaches, while others will require more extensive treatment. Your doctor may suggest creating a headache diary to help you learn more about your headache triggers.

READ MORE: Headache behind your eyes

Sinus infections and pressure behind the eyes

A sinus infection (sinusitis) is an infection of the lining of the sinuses, which are hollow spaces filled with air near your eyes and nose. The maxillary sinuses below your eyes are the ones most likely to get infected. 

But you can also get a sinus infection in the sinuses behind your eyes (sphenoid sinuses), the sinuses above the eyes (frontal sinuses) and the sinuses between your eyes (ethmoid sinuses). 

A sinus infection may cause a sinus headache, a dull, throbbing pain or feeling of pressure behind the eyes, as well as in the cheeks, in the forehead and behind the nose.

Other symptoms of a sinus infection may include:

• Bad breath

• Cough

• Fatigue

• Fever

• Postnasal drip

• Sore throat

• Stuffy nose

It’s important to see your doctor if you suspect a sinus infection. Most sinus infections respond well to treatment with decongestants, nasal saline and possibly antibiotics, antihistamines or steroid spray. 

An untreated sinus infection can lead to more serious issues including eye problems.

READ MORE: How do sinuses affect your eyes?

Tooth issues and pressure behind the eyes

There are a number of dental issues that can cause a feeling of pain or pressure behind the eyes. In some cases, this may be “referred pain,” which is pain that’s coming from one place that you feel in another part of the body. For example, tooth pain could be felt as pain or pressure behind the eye.

Bite issues that may be caused by tooth alignment problems or missing teeth can put stress on the muscles in the jaw and face. This can lead to headaches that you may feel behind the eyes.

Some of the symptoms of head pressure or pain behind the eyes that may be caused by problems with your bite include:

• Clicking or popping when you open or close your mouth.

• Pain when you touch your head or scalp.

• Frequent grinding of the teeth at night or during the day.

If you suspect you may have tooth alignment issues, it’s important to see your dentist for a complete dental exam. You may need bite realignment or physical therapy to fix the problem. 

Optic neuritis and pressure behind the eyes

Optic neuritis is a swelling of the optic nerve that can cause blurry vision or vision loss. Doctors do not know exactly what causes optic neuritis, but many cases occur in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). 

Symptoms of optic neuritis typically occur in one eye, so patients may have pain or pressure behind the left or right eye. Other symptoms of optic neuritis in the affected eye may include:

• Blurry or dimmed vision

• Colors looking less bright or crisp

• Pain behind the eye or when moving the eye

• Symptoms that get worse with heat or physical exertion

It’s important to see your eye doctor for an eye exam. Treatment for optic neuritis can reduce the swelling and help to prevent vision loss. Treatment for optic neuritis may include IV and oral steroids.

Graves’ disease and pressure behind the eyes

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune condition that leads to an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). About one in three patients with Graves’ disease develops an eye condition known as thyroid eye disease (TED). This eye condition causes the eyes to bulge out and may cause a feeling of pressure behind the eyes.

Other symptoms of Graves’ disease may include:

• Dry eyes and irritation.

• Redness in the eyes.

• Inflammation of the eyes.

• Puffiness around the eyes.

In a small percentage of cases, TED can threaten the vision. Treatment may involve monitoring the eyes during the active phase of Graves’ disease and using treatments like eye drops to address symptoms such as dry eyes. Some patients may require surgery to address vision issues.

Diagnosis and treatment for pressure behind the eyes

Your doctor may use a variety of diagnostic tools to find out what is causing the feeling of pressure behind your eye or eyes. They will likely do a physical exam and ask questions about the pressure, where it is located and how it feels.

Your doctor also may do or order diagnostic tests such as:

• An eye exam that includes looking inside your eyes using ophthalmoscopy.

• Endoscopy of the nose (using a tool with a light and camera).

• Imaging (such as CT scan or MRI).

• Tests for Graves’ disease (such as a blood test or radioactive iodine uptake test).

The treatment your doctor prescribes will depend on the cause of the pressure behind the eye or eyes. 

SEE RELATED: Cavernous sinus thrombosis

When to see your doctor

If you’re suffering from pain or pressure behind the eyes, you should see your medical or eye doctor. 

Seek medical care right away if you experience:

• Vision changes

• Swelling around the eyes

• High fever

• Severe or stabbing eye pain

• Sudden or severe head pain

• Neck stiffness

Even if it doesn’t seem to be an emergency, it’s important to see your doctor for a prolonged or recurring feeling of pressure behind the eyes so you can get diagnosis and treatment.

What is ocular hypertension? American Academy of Ophthalmology. May 2022.

Migraine. MedlinePlus. May 2021.

Tension headache. MedlinePlus. November 2021.

Sinus infection (sinusitis). Cleveland Clinic. June 2020.

Ask the expert: What is a migraine? National Headache Foundation. December 2020.

Sinus headaches. Cedars-Sinai. Accessed July 2022.

Headaches & dental health. American Academy of Craniofacial Pain. Accessed July 2022.

What is optic neuritis? American Academy of Ophthalmology. May 2022.

Adult optic neuritis. Medscape. January 2021.

Graves’ disease. American Thyroid Association. Accessed July 2022.

Thyroid eye disease (TED or Graves’ eye disease). Kellogg Eye Center. Accessed April 2022.

Eye pain. MedlinePlus. December 2021.

Page published on Thursday, July 7, 2022

Medically reviewed on Wednesday, May 4, 2022

Managing Eye Pressure Pain: Causes, Symptoms and Solutions

Orbital & Ocular

Common Causes

Remedies

Brain-Pain Connection

When an Eye Exam is Needed

The causes of eye pressure and pain may vary — from dry eyes to headaches to more complex diseases. Learn about the causes and symptoms of and remedies for eye pain, how to treat milder cases of eye discomfort at home, and when to call a licensed eye doctor to evaluate your symptoms.

Understanding the Differences Between Ocular and Orbital Pain

Do you know why your eyes feel uncomfortable, or are you unsure why you have these symptoms? To diagnose the root cause of eye pain and to better communicate with your eye doctor, it’s essential to understand these differences between ocular pain and orbital pain:

• Ocular pain: This is the type of pain you feel on the surface of your eyeball. You may have scratched or injured your eye. You might also feel that something is stuck in your eye or notice that your eyes feel abnormally dry.
• Orbital pain: Orbital pain affects the socket the eye rests in. This type of pain may feel like it’s “behind” your eyes. It might also feel like your eyes are throbbing. Feeling tired with pressure behind your eyes may indicate a migraine or illness.

Common Causes of Eye Pain

There are many causes of eye pain and discomfort. Many symptoms are easily treated at home, but some require medical intervention. Read through the following types of eye pain to determine if your condition needs professional treatment.

Dry Eyes

Dry eyes may be a side effect of the low humidity in the Arizona area, a symptom of an autoimmune disease, or a signal that you’ve simply been working at your computer for too long. Experiencing occasional dry eyes is normal, but severe, chronic dry eyes call for a trip to the eye doctor.

Headaches (Tension and Migraine)

Tension headaches can affect the orbital space because they tighten the muscles in the head and eye area. Migraines, on the other hand, are neurological and can cause a wide variety of symptoms. During a migraine episode, you may experience deep, throbbing orbital pain, pressure behind your left or right eye, or pain in the eye socket and brow bone.

Waking up with eye pain and headache may indicate the beginning of a migraine. Note that sharp, sudden head or eye pain is never normal and should be promptly assessed by a professional.

Injury

Accidents and injuries can cause both ocular and orbital pain. It’s crucial to seek medical treatment immediately after a blow or laceration that affects your eye area.

Sinus Infection

The human head contains several sinus cavities that sit below and above the eyes. When your sinuses swell during an infection, they can cause orbital pressure. You should seek medical treatment if you are experiencing sharp or ongoing eye pain that doesn’t improve when your illness does.

Tooth Problems

Nerves connect different parts of your face, including your eyes, teeth, sinuses, and nasal cavities. Pain from an infected or abscessed tooth can radiate across your face to the eye area. You might feel orbital pain, tooth pain, or both, as a tooth problem can present as pain elsewhere in the face. It’s a good idea to have your pain examined if you aren’t sure of the cause.

Optic Neuritis

Optic neuritis is the medical term for a swollen optic nerve. This nerve connects your eyes to the vision centers in your brain and is responsible for sending images from the eyes to your brain. When this nerve is swollen, it can cause blurry vision, light sensitivity, and vision loss when left untreated.

Symptoms to Look Out For

While some eye discomfort symptoms are obvious, others are not. Watch out for these symptoms:

• Pain on the surface of your eyes
• Pain behind your eyes
• Chronic discomfort or dryness
• The feeling of pressure in one eye
• The sensation of something stuck in your eye
• Pain or discomfort when you insert contact lenses
• Blurry vision or trouble seeing in low-light conditions

When to Seek Medical Attention

In general, it’s a good idea to seek the opinion of a medical professional if you aren’t sure what is causing your troubling eye symptoms. Severe pain and pressure are warning signs that should always be examined.

If you already know the cause — for example, if you struggle with severe migraine or optic neuritis due to multiple sclerosis — and your current treatment isn’t working, please schedule an appointment so that your provider can help you as soon as possible.

Home Remedies for Eye Pain

If you’re experiencing milder eye pain, home remedies can help alleviate your discomfort. Consider whether you’re experiencing pain on the surface of your eye or behind the eye before you decide on a treatment strategy.

• Ocular pain home remedies: Use over-the-counter eyedrops for scratchy, dry eyes. You can also place a cold compress over your eyes a few times a day. Consider taking a break from your phone and computer as screens cause you to blink less, which dries out your eyes.
• Orbital pain home remedies: When you feel pressure in one eye (or both), take over-the-counter medications to dull the pain. If you have sinus pain due to allergies, influenza, or a sinus infection, take appropriate medications for these conditions to prevent further complications. If you suspect that the feeling of pressure in your eyes and headache stems from an untreated toothache, don’t try to treat this at home. See your dentist to accurately diagnose the problem.

Understanding the Connection Between Your Mind and Eye Pain

Your mind plays a large role in every physical condition that manifests in your body. For example, if you experience migraines or tension headaches from stress, you understand the mind-body connection at work here. Identify any personal triggers that might factor into your eye pain.

If you struggle to manage a chronic pain condition that affects your eyes, like multiple sclerosis, learning more about mindfulness meditation may help decrease your body’s response to pain.

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams allow your eye doctor to evaluate your vision and check the health of your eyes. If you are experiencing any eye pain or discomfort, including headaches, blurry vision, and dryness, discuss this with your doctor during the appointment.

Don’t delay your regular examination if you have any eye health concerns. Schedule your next eye exam with BDP Lasik for high-quality, experienced care.

Eye pressure – causes, symptoms, treatment of intraocular pressure

Back to all articles

Symptoms of increased intraocular pressure

Causes of increased intraocular pressure

What eye pressure is considered normal?

How to lower eye pressure

Prevention of increased intraocular pressure

Why high eye pressure is dangerous

Each person has a certain level of intraocular pressure. In medicine, it is often called ophthalmotonus. The circulation of intraocular pressure is one of the most important indicators of the normal functioning of the visual system, a measure of the risk of developing glaucoma and other dangerous eye diseases.

Intraocular pressure is formed due to pressure on the cavity of the chamber of the eyeball of intraocular fluid. This protects the structure of the eye from deformation, maintains normal blood circulation.

Ophthalmotonus has a certain level of normal. Eye pressure can be elevated, which is dangerous for the development of serious eye pathologies, in particular glaucoma. It is impossible to determine on your own whether the level of intraocular pressure is in order. This can only be done by an ophthalmologist after a comprehensive diagnosis of vision.

Symptoms of increased intraocular pressure

Normal intraocular pressure ranges from 11 to 21 mmHg. Values ​​above this indicator may indicate that a person develops eye diseases, one of the most likely is glaucoma.

Increased intraocular pressure has a number of symptoms that can be used to suspect that the pressure is above the permissible norm. Often, patients interpret the appearance of these signs as a consequence of fatigue, overwork at work, lack of sleep. But in fact, the symptoms indicate a high ophthalmotonus or even the development of glaucoma.

Experts distinguish among such symptoms:

• Pain in the eyes, burning.
• Sensation of pressure on the eyes.
• Pain in the eyes.
• Chronic fatigue.
• Lachrymation.
• Dry eyes.
• Unpleasant sensation as if something were stuck in the eye.

In addition to these symptoms, a patient with increased intraocular pressure often suffers from headaches, migraines, dizziness and nausea. These signs should never be ignored. It is necessary to contact an ophthalmologist as soon as possible for advice and the appointment of an effective treatment.

Causes of increased intraocular pressure

Ophthalmotonus may be unstable depending on the age, presence of chronic diseases, general well-being of the patient. After the age of 40, eye pressure tends to increase, so at this age it is important to visit an ophthalmologist at least once a year.

Causes that can provoke an increase in ophthalmotonus include:

• Infectious and inflammatory eye diseases (conjunctivitis, keratitis, blepharitis, and others).
• Vascular diseases.
• Head injuries.
• Chronic eye fatigue, strain.
• Stable high blood pressure.

Eating certain foods can cause an increase in eye pressure. For example, excessive consumption of tea, coffee. Caffeine has a pronounced effect on the vessels of the brain.

What is normal eye pressure?

The normal range of intraocular pressure is 11 to 21 mmHg. Art. In elderly patients aged 50 years and older, this figure can reach 25 mm Hg. Art. And this will be the norm.

The level of ophthalmotonus may change during the day. For example, in the morning, the pressure, as a rule, always has the highest level, and in the evening it decreases. The indicators of ophthalmotonus can also be affected by hormonal levels, stress, pregnancy, and age-related changes in the body.

How to reduce eye pressure

At the first symptoms of increased eye pressure, you should contact an ophthalmologist as soon as possible. If the degenerative processes in the organ of vision have not reached a critical stage, then special drops are usually prescribed to lower intraocular pressure. The drugs will help normalize the outflow of intraocular fluid, reduce its pressure on the walls of blood vessels. The doctor selects the drops strictly individually, focusing on the results of the diagnosis and on-site examination of the patient. It is impossible to buy drops on your own without a prescription from an ophthalmologist – this can harm your eyesight even more.

It often happens that the selected drops do not suit the patient. In this case, the doctor selects a new drug, the effectiveness of which will be higher in a particular medical case.

In addition to drip therapy, doctors offer a set of supportive measures aimed at reducing intraocular pressure. This list includes special exercises for the eyes, diet, wearing special glasses, taking vitamins.

In a situation where infectious diseases are the cause of increased ophthalmotonus, ophthalmologists prescribe anti-inflammatory drops, antibacterial drugs.

One of the common causes of increased intraocular pressure, especially in patients over 55 years of age, is glaucoma. This is a dangerous disease that cannot be completely cured and which can lead to loss of vision. Treatment of glaucoma is both therapeutic and surgical. As a therapy, drip is used, in more acute cases they resort to such interventions as laser trabeculoplasty, antiglaucoma operations with the introduction of special drainages.

Prevention of increased intraocular pressure

Intraocular pressure can increase for many reasons, including those associated with the development of dangerous eye diseases. In this case, prompt medical attention is important.

In order to prevent or slow down pathological changes in the drainage system of the eye, the following preventive measures are recommended.

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In prevention, it is also important to be as nervous as possible, to avoid strong nervous shocks and stress. This can also affect the sharp rise in eye pressure.

Why is high eye pressure dangerous? The intense pressure of intraocular fluid on the vascular walls can provoke rupture of capillaries, microtrauma of the structures of the organ of vision. The blood supply in the organ of vision is disturbed, which leads to a lack of nutrition in the visual system.

Reduced ophthalmotonus also poses a threat to eye health. The fact is that a low level of eye pressure negatively affects the vitreous body, a gel-like fluid that lines the cavity between the lens and the retina. The eyeball can be deformed, which is fraught with the risk of loss of vision.

Increased and decreased eye pressure does not always mean problems in the organ of vision. The reason may lie in the disruption of the cardiovascular system, liver.

Glaucoma – not a sentence?

Ophthalmologist of the highest category, candidate of medical sciences Svetlana Fedorovna Savchenko

A tear-stained woman of about sixty-five was sitting in the ophthalmologist’s office. In the district clinic where the patient was observed, the doctors made a disappointing diagnosis – glaucoma, they said that it was already too late, the process was irreversible, complete blindness lay ahead.

Why has the disease not manifested itself in any way over the past few years? Is the verdict final and there is nothing to hope for? The results of the survey at the Regional Glaucoma Center OKDC looked, fortunately, more optimistic. Modern methods of treatment will still make the disease recede.

Ophthalmologists of the Rostov Regional Consultative and Diagnostic Center talk about advanced technologies in the fight against the disease, how to recognize the disease at various stages and stop the destructive process.

How to detect glaucoma in the early stages?

Glaucoma is a group of chronic eye diseases with various etiologies, which is characterized by a constant or periodic increase in intraocular pressure. The disease leads to damage to the optic nerve, which is the cause of irreversible blindness. The patient requires regular monitoring by an ophthalmologist and strict adherence to the prescribed therapy throughout his life. And the sooner a person seeks medical help, the more successful the treatment will be.

Modern diagnostics consists of 5 main methods: measurement of intraocular pressure, biomicroscopic examination of the structures of the eyes and fundus, determination of visual fields, and optical coherence tomography.

In subsequent articles we will talk about each method, about its significance in making a diagnosis, about modern technical capabilities.

After the diagnosis of glaucoma is established, it is important to carefully adhere to the instillation regimen selected by the doctor, which allows you to keep intraocular pressure at a safe level. There are many effective drugs available for early treatment of glaucoma.

If medical treatment fails, laser treatment is performed. The operation is painless, has practically no contraindications, complications and is performed on an outpatient basis.

Selective laser trabeculoplasty occupies a worthy place in the series of various laser methods for the treatment of glaucoma. Laser exposure leads to an improvement in the outflow of intraocular fluid and a decrease in intraocular pressure. Selective laser trabeculoplasty has been performed in the Regional Glaucoma Center of OKDC since 2006. Recently, this method of treatment has become increasingly popular.