What is ocular hypertension?
Ocular hypertension means the pressure inside the eye is higher than normal while the optic nerve and visual field are still healthy — it is a risk factor for glaucoma, not glaucoma itself. Many people with elevated pressure never develop damage; others do, which is why it cannot simply be ignored. Corneal thickness, nerve appearance, family history, and age all shape the risk. Depending on those factors, we may monitor closely or lower the pressure preventively with drops or SLT laser. Regular exams keep “higher than normal” from quietly becoming glaucoma.
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The term ocular hypertension typically refers to any situation in which the pressure inside of the eye is higher than normal. Ocular Hypertension is not considered a disease by itself, but it can lead to a condition known as glaucoma. Glaucoma is a serious disease that causes vision loss and can also lead to blindness if left untreated. On its own, ocular hypertension does not cause damage to vision. This condition must be monitored carefully and, in some cases, treated with topical eye medications. If your doctor feels that you are at low risk of developing glaucoma in the next several years, then eye medications may not be necessary. Since ocular hypertension may increase the risk of developing glaucoma, routine eye exams by an eye care professional are recommended to assess the eye's overall health.
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This page and video are for general patient education and are not a substitute for a medical examination, diagnosis, or treatment. Eye conditions vary by individual. For advice about your eyes, schedule an evaluation with May Eye Care Center. In an emergency, call 911.
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