Most people don’t think about eye pressure, but it’s an important part of keeping your eyes healthy. If this pressure gets too high, it can lead to glaucoma, a condition that can lead to vision loss. In India, where glaucoma is one of the third leading causes of blindness, it’s essential to understand and manage normal intraocular pressure (IOP). Continue reading as we explain normal IOP, how it’s measured, and why it’s crucial for preventing glaucoma.
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What is Intraocular Pressure (IOP)?
Intraocular pressure refers to the fluid pressure inside your eye. This pressure helps maintain the shape of your eye. IOP is influenced by the flow of aqueous humour, a fluid produced inside the eye. The right balance between the production and drainage of this fluid determines the average intraocular pressure.
Normal intraocular pressure is measured using a device called a tonometer. The process is quick, non-invasive, and can be performed during a routine eye exam. Let’s look at what is considered normal IOP at one of these screenings.
What is Considered Normal Intraocular Pressure?
The normal IOP range typically falls between 10 and 20 mmHg. This range is considered safe for most individuals, as it minimises the risk of damage to the optic nerve. However, it’s essential to understand that “normal” can vary from person to person. Some individuals have slightly higher or lower average intraocular pressure but still have healthy eyes. Here are a few key points to remember:
- The normal IOP range for most people in India is 10–20 mmHg.
- Normal eye pressure can differ due to individual factors like age, genetics, or overall health.
- Having normal intraocular pressure doesn’t guarantee that one won’t develop glaucoma, as some people with IOP in the normal range may still develop the condition.
Elevated IOP: A Risk Factor for Glaucoma
Increased IOP is a major risk factor for developing different types of glaucoma. Here’s how it works:
- Increased pressure on the optic nerve: As eye pressure builds up, it presses on the delicate fibres of the optic nerve, which can lead to irreversible damage. However, regular eye check-ups can ensure you keep eye pressure within the normal range.
- Ocular hypertension: This is when the IOP is higher than normal, but no signs of optic nerve damage or vision loss have appeared yet. While it doesn’t mean a person has glaucoma, it significantly increases their risk of developing the disease.
Remember: longer the eye pressure stays elevated, greater the risk of damage. If you maintain the average intraocular pressure, you can reduce the possibility of optic nerve damage and avoid conditions like glaucoma.
People with consistently elevated IOP should take special precautions, as the condition often develops without noticeable symptoms until the damage is already done. Regular eye exams are needed for monitoring and maintaining safe IOP levels.
Normal-Tension Glaucoma: When IOP Is Not Always the Culprit
Normal-tension glaucoma is a kind of glaucoma where the optic nerve is damaged even though IOP is normal. This is different from primary open-angle glaucoma, which usually happens when the IOP is too high. In normal-tension glaucoma, the IOP remains within the safe range of 10-20 mmHg, but poor blood flow to the optic nerve may cause damage over time.
Below is a comparison of normal-tension glaucoma and open-angle glaucoma:
| Feature | Normal-Tension Glaucoma | Open-Angle Glaucoma |
| IOP Levels | Within the normal IOP range | Elevated IOP |
| Primary Cause | Likely due to poor blood flow to the optic nerve | Elevated IOP causing optic nerve damage |
| Damage to Optic Nerve | Yes | Yes |
| Risk Factors | Genetics, vascular issues | Elevated IOP, family history |
| Prevalence | Less common | More common |
Hence, even if your eye pressure is within the normal intraocular range, regular eye check-ups are essential to monitor your optic nerve health, especially if there is a family history of glaucoma.
Managing IOP to Prevent Glaucoma
Managing intraocular pressure is one of the most critical steps to prevent glaucoma. Here are a few practical ways to manage eye pressure:
- Medications (Eye Drops): Doctors often prescribe eye drops that either reduce the fluid in the eye or improve its drainage, which helps lower pressure.
- Laser Treatments (SLT): Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty is a procedure that helps improve fluid drainage, especially when eye drops aren’t enough.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be needed to create new ways for fluid to drain if other treatments aren’t working.
Lifestyle changes can also help:
- Exercise: Staying active can help reduce eye pressure and improve overall health.
- Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet with leafy greens, fruits, and omega-3s can help keep your eyes healthy and maintain normal eye pressure.
Centre for Sight has locations across India, making booking an appointment with a specialist easy. Visit your nearest branch and get your IOP checked today—because protecting your vision starts with regular care.
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FAQs
Normal intraocular pressure falls between 10 and 20 mmHg. This range is considered safe for most people. Staying within this range helps protect vision and eye health.
A pressure of 23 mmHg is considered abnormal. While not dangerously high, it could signal a risk for glaucoma. Regular check-ups can help monitor and manage this.
Eye pressure above 25 mmHg can damage the optic nerve. This can eventually lead to vision loss without treatment. Early detection through eye exams is essential to prevent this.
Normal pressure in the right and left eyes ranges from 10 to 20 mmHg. Both eyes usually maintain similar pressure levels, which helps prevent conditions like glaucoma.
