Eye Pressure Measurement

Maintaining healthy eyes may involve regular checkups by an optometrist. During these examinations, several important tests are conducted to assess the health of your eyes. One of these tests measures intraocular pressure, often referred to as eye pressure. If you are looking for an eye exam or vision exam from an eye doctor near you, we at Eyear Optical in Chattanooga, TN, Athens, TN, and Cleveland, TN, are here to help.

Why Is Eye Pressure Important?

The inside of your eye is filled with a clear fluid called aqueous humor. This fluid nourishes the internal structures of the eye and helps maintain its shape. The pressure exerted by this fluid is crucial for proper eye function. If the pressure becomes too high, it can damage the optic nerve, the pathway that transmits visual information to the brain. This condition, known as glaucoma, can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.

How Is Eye Pressure Measured?

A common method for measuring eye pressure is called tonometry. Tonometry works by gently applying a small force to the cornea, the clear dome-shaped structure at the front of your eye. Here are a few types of tonometry:

●             Applanation tonometry: During this test, your eye doctor will numb your eye with anesthetic eye drops. A small, lightweight device called a tonometer is then gently placed on the cornea. The tonometer measures the resistance of the cornea to the applied force, providing an indirect measurement of the pressure inside the eye.

●             Air-puff tonometry: This non-contact method uses a puff of air to briefly flatten the cornea. The machine then measures how much the cornea resists the air puff.

What to Expect during Eye Pressure Measurement

Both applanation and air-puff tonometry are generally painless procedures. However, you may feel a slight discomfort or pressure sensation during the test. It is important to relax and keep your eyes still to ensure an accurate measurement.

Following the test, the eye doctor will discuss your eye pressure reading with you and explain what it means in the context of your overall eye health. If your eye pressure is elevated, the doctor may recommend additional testing or treatment to monitor or lower your pressure and prevent potential vision problems.

Get an Eye Exam, Vision Exam, or Optical Near You from an Optometrist Near You

If you are interested in learning more about eye pressure measurement, give us a call. We at Eyear Optical in Chattanooga, TN, Athens, TN, and Cleveland, TN, are here to help. Call us at (423) 805-7341 for an eye exam, vision exam, or optical near you from an optometrist near you.