Related articles: Elevated intraocular pressure
Definition
Ocular hypertension refers to any situation where the pressure inside the eye is constantly at or above 21 mmHg (note: the parameter is considered normal if it is between 10 and 20 mmHg).
Intraocular pressure is determined by the balance between the production and drainage of liquids within the eye. From the physiological point of view, it helps to stabilize the shape of the eyeball and maintains the conditions for an optimal refraction.
Pathological changes in excess of eye pressure can be caused by: inadequate drainage or increased production of fluids, long-term use of certain drugs (eg corticosteroids), eye trauma and other diseases. Several factors can temporarily influence the blood pressure level, such as heart rate, fluid intake, exercise, alcohol and caffeine consumption.
A significant and persistent change in eye pressure, not adequately treated, can cause vision problems and induce the onset of eye diseases.
High values of intraocular pressure constitute an important indicator in the evaluation of glaucoma, of which they constitute a risk factor (note: we speak of glaucoma only in the case in which there is also damage to the optic nerve and a deficit of the visual field) .
Possible Causes * of elevated intraocular pressure
- Glaucoma
- Iridocyclitis
- Retinoblastoma
