How is intraocular pressure measured and what does it affect? IOP control: how to measure eye pressure at home. How often should IOP be monitored and how much does it cost?

Measuring intraocular pressure is a diagnostic procedure that allows you to assess the degree of pressure of intraocular fluid on the inner membranes of the eye. This indicator is very important and informative for an ophthalmologist. Based on it, we can conclude that there is . Ocular tonometry also monitors the effectiveness of treatment for this disease or determines how well the visual system is recovering after surgery. Let's find out how to correctly measure intraocular pressure, and who needs this procedure regularly?

Excessively high or low internal ocular pressure (IOP), or ophthalmotonus, is a vision-threatening symptom. With high IOP, the capillaries of the fundus are compressed, certain areas of the retina are injured, and at this point the light-sensitive cells may die. As a result, vision deteriorates. If the optic nerve is compressed, it will not receive enough oxygen and nutrients. This can lead to atrophy and irreversible vision loss.

A low level of ophthalmotonus is an equally dangerous sign. If at high pressure inside the eye the capillaries are compressed, then at low pressure they are simply not able to push blood to the “destination point”. As a result, tissue atrophy of the visual organ occurs, which can also lead to blindness.

High IOP can also be a symptom of chronic cardiovascular disease. Low blood pressure may indicate liver failure or the onset of .

Who needs eye tonometry?

Eye pressure is measured by an ophthalmologist according to indications – symptoms that the patient complains about. These include:

• Deterioration of vision;
• Veil before the eyes;
• Headache radiating to the eyes and temples;
• Rapid eye fatigue;
• Impaired twilight vision;
• Redness of the outer membranes of the eye;
• Painful tension when trying to concentrate the gaze on some object;
• Pain felt while blinking;
• Dry eye syndrome;
• Deformation of the pupils;
• Narrowing of the field of view or loss of its individual sections.

You should not postpone a visit to an ophthalmologist to measure intraocular pressure, since in the early stages it causes almost no discomfort, and in the later stages the chances of saving your vision are already low.

Now it is clear why to measure eye pressure - so as not to miss the favorable time for effective treatment of impaired IOP.

Types of intraocular pressure

The pressure inside the eye may be high. Possible reasons:

• Hereditary or congenital abnormalities of the structure of the eyeball;
• Fluid inside the eye capsule is secreted in excess;
• The outflow of intraocular fluid from the capsule is impaired.

IOP may be low for the following reasons:

• Pathological development of the eye;
• Trauma to the eyeball;
• Recently had ophthalmic surgery.

Additionally, increased pressure inside the eye is classified. There are three types in total:

1. Stable. Dangerous and progressive appearance. IOP is constantly increased;
2. Labile. The pressure rises periodically, but drops to normal on its own;
3. Transitory. The increase in intraocular pressure is episodic, but quickly normalizes.

If the pressure inside the eyes increased once, and this does not happen again, most likely you had nervous strain, or the visual apparatus was tired. IOP may temporarily increase during attacks of hypertension.

Palpation for approximate determination of the degree of ophthalmotonus

Before using hardware diagnostics, ophthalmotonus is measured by palpation. This honey gives a rough estimate of intraocular pressure. The ophthalmologist can determine the degree of scleral density by pressing on it through the upper eyelid with your fingers:

• Overly soft(finger sinks into eyeball);
• Very soft(the finger is slightly pressed into the sclera);
• Soft(the elasticity of the sclera is slightly below normal, but it is higher than with the “very soft” degree;
• Normal(intraocular pressure is normal);
• Moderate(during palpation, increased density of the sclera is felt);
• Increased(the eyeball feels very dense to the touch);
• Stone(the sclera is so hard that when pressed with a finger it does not press through at all - like a stone).

This method of assessing ophthalmotonus is imprecise, but quite informative. Subsequently, hardware ocular tonometry may be prescribed. But you can limit yourself to this method if the patient has pathologies of the cornea or retina. Palpation is also well tolerated by children.

Contact methods of ocular tonometry

There are several contact devices for measuring eye pressure. Their advantage lies in the high accuracy of the data obtained (up to 1 millimeter of mercury). The disadvantages of contact methods of ocular tonometry are the possibility of infection and the need for pain relief before the procedure. Such devices are suitable for measuring IOP only in adults, since children may resist, which will lead to eye injury.

Maklakov method

The most accurate readings of pressure inside the eye are given by the Maklakov method. The algorithm for measuring IOP is as follows:

1. The patient is asked to sit comfortably on the couch. Special drops are put into his eyes as a local anesthetic;
2. The Maklakov tonometer is prepared, consisting of two weights in the form of hollow metal cylinders - they are moistened in a safe dye solution;
3. One weight is placed on the central zone of the cornea of ​​the right eye, and the second - on the left eye;
4. The weights are removed and placed on paper to obtain prints from the remaining ink;
5. The patient is given antiseptic drops to prevent infection and asked to get off the couch.

The marks left by the weights on the paper are of a strictly defined size, which depends on how much paint is left on the cornea. If there is little ink printed, the pressure is low; if there is a lot, the pressure is high. The sizes of the spots are measured with a specially graduated ruler, with the help of which the degree of IOP is converted into millimeters of mercury.

Goldmann tonometer

Recently, they often do the procedure not according to Maklakov, but use the Goldman device, although the techniques for measuring intraocular pressure are similar. In both cases, anesthesia and a dye solution are required.

The Goldmann apparatus is installed at the slit lamp. After instillation of anesthesia and a dye solution, a prism is applied to the patient's cornea. It presses on the shell, flattening it and forming colored half rings. The pressure is carefully adjusted until these half rings are aligned at one point. Then the exact IOP is determined using a special scale.

Schiotz method

In adults, intraocular pressure is often measured using the Schiotz method. It is also associated with pressing a load of some mass on a metal rod onto the cornea. The patient is also given local anesthesia, but there is no need to use dye solutions. A weight is applied to the eyeball, which is subject to eye pressure from the inside. It prevents the load from being pressed, as a result the device deviates towards the shooter. The needle has a special scale, the values ​​of which are checked against those entered in the calibration table. As a result, the ophthalmologist receives an accurate value of ophthalmotonus.

Dynamic contour tonometry (DCT)

This is a contact diagnostic method that, unlike other methods of measuring IOP, does not allow the cornea to be deformed during the procedure. How is IOP measured using VCT? The tip of the device is applied to the eyeball: it is made in the shape of a hollow figure corresponding to the patient’s cornea. In the center of the tip is a small pressure sensor.

The advantages of DCT are the independence of the sensor readings from the curvature and thickness of the cornea. Moreover, the sensor allows you to dynamically monitor intraocular pressure throughout the entire procedure, which typically takes only 8 seconds, and its readings are stored in computer memory.

Methods for measuring IOP without contact with the cornea

In patients with pathologies of the ocular membranes and in children, it is more convenient to determine intraocular pressure in a non-contact manner. Its main advantage is that the procedure is painless and eliminates the risk of infection in the eye. However, the readings provided by a non-contact blood pressure monitor are less accurate. But in most cases they are sufficient to diagnose and monitor the condition of the patient’s eyeballs.

Air flow blood pressure monitors

Among non-contact devices for measuring ophthalmotonus, devices that supply air flow to the cornea are popular. The essence of the technique is as follows:

1. The patient keeps his eyes open and focuses on a light point;
2. The device turns on and it begins to deliver an air stream directly to the center of the cornea;
3. Under air pressure at the site of exposure, the cornea is deformed;
4. A special sensor assesses the degree of corneal deformation and provides an assessment of ophthalmotonus.

At low pressure, even a very light stream of air can deform the cornea. And with increased ophthalmotonus, the cornea is practically not pressed through. These changes are recorded by the device. However, its readings are inaccurate at low IOP, but allow a fairly high estimate of high pressure.

Optical coherence tomography (OCT)

This is a non-contact technique that helps to very accurately examine various tissues of the eyeball. An infrared beam is directed into the eyes of the patient, who is asked to focus on a specific point. It is projected on the retina. As a result, an interference pattern appears. During one procedure, the ophthalmologist receives several such pictures; for diagnosis, he selects the best one (where everything is clearly visible). Based on the selected picture, the doctor draws up tables, protocols and maps, and from them judges the value of ophthalmotonus.

Important! OCT makes it possible to diagnose glaucoma, pathologies of the retina and optic nerve in the early stages. But the method has a high risk of false negative and positive conclusions. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct additional diagnostics to confirm or exclude the suspected diagnosis.

Portable blood pressure monitors

For people suffering from severe glaucoma, it is important to determine ophthalmotonus several times a day. How to measure eye pressure at home without visiting a doctor every time? There are special portable devices for this. They determine IOP by contact method.

The ICare device is often used to measure eye pressure at home. It has replaceable sensors that need to be momentarily applied to the cornea of ​​the eye. Since the sensor is disposable, infection is practically excluded. A short contact time ensures that the procedure is painless and can be done independently or with the help of loved ones.

Important! The pressure inside the eye is constantly changing. It depends on breathing, heartbeat and other factors. Therefore, for more accurate readings, it is advisable to take several readings at a time, and take their average value as the true one.

The amount of intraocular pressure is an important indicator of the health of the visual organ. It allows us to judge the presence of a disease such as glaucoma, which constantly progresses and, if left untreated, leads to blindness. With regular violations of ophthalmotonus, it is important to determine their cause. Perhaps some chronic disease contributes to this. Then treatment of the underlying disease will help normalize the pressure inside the eye.

Measuring intraocular pressure is a necessary procedure, since it helps diagnose the functionality of the visual apparatus. If enough oxygen and nutrients enter the eye, any serious disruptions in its functioning are practically excluded. Normal internal ocular pressure has a beneficial effect on the shape of the eyeball. When a failure occurs, visual ailments, in particular glaucoma, should be expected.

Doctors strongly recommend making an appointment with an ophthalmologist at least once a year. If discomfort in the organs of vision appears, then it is all the more important to appear for a consultation. Why is this needed? The sooner the reason why ophthalmotonus changes upward or downward is identified, the easier it is to detect a serious illness. Accordingly, treatment therapy will be started on time.

A person may not even be aware of increased pressure and changes in the fundus of the eye for a long time. But its progression will sooner or later cause unpleasant consequences.

How to measure eye pressure? To detect pathology in adults, a device is used - a tonometer. During the procedure, pressure is applied to the eyeball using a special weight.

Ophthalmotonus is measured in various ways.

Doctors often use:

1. Finger method.
2. Contactless.
3. Tonometry according to Maklakov.

It is necessary to determine intraocular pressure when:

• glaucoma (especially when someone in the family suffers from the disease);
• neurological disorders;
• endocrine and cardiovascular ailments;
• decreased acuity and reduced visual fields;
• pain in the head that bothers you at the same time as pain in the eyes;
• compression of the eyeball;
• dryness, clouding or redness of the corneal layer;
• retraction of the eyeball;
• changes in the pupil - stretching or deformation.

The device will show inaccurate information if the patient's condition, both physical and emotional, is unsuitable for examination. We are talking about cases where a person is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Measurements should not be taken if the patient is in an aggressive or overexcited state. The presence of a disease of the mucous membrane and fundus of the eye of a viral, infectious or bacterial etiology is also a serious contraindication.

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Diagnostics by palpation and approximate

A similar method can be used to approximately determine ophthalmotonus. During the procedure, the doctor uses his fingertips to assess the level of pressure inside the eyeball.

The examination is carried out as follows:

• the patient should lower his gaze;
• The ophthalmologist rests his fingers on the forehead area, and with his index fingers, placing them on the eyelid, lightly presses on the apple.

When you feel small impulses in the sclera and fundus of the eye, the doctor is convinced that the ophthalmotonus is normal or slightly reduced. When you need to make an effort to press on the sclera, it means the pressure is increased. In this case, you won’t be able to feel the shocks with your index finger. Although it is impossible to definitively say that ophthalmotonus is increased.

Thanks to palpation, it is possible to determine what degree of scleral density is present.

She may be:

• normal;
• moderate;
• increased;
• stone.

A decrease in ophthalmotonus is accompanied by the presence of soft sclera, very soft or excessively soft.

Why is such an examination needed? The palpation-orientation method can be used in cases where there are contraindications for other methods. In addition, using this method, anyone can easily check intraocular pressure at home. The technique is relatively easy to master.

This method of using a tonometer is not appropriate in all cases. If the visual organs have been operated on or there are inflammatory diseases, in particular the fundus, tonometry is prohibited.

Maklakov’s technique is carried out as follows:

1. Before a special device is used, local anesthesia is used to avoid pain and other negative sensations.
2. After a maximum of 5 minutes, the patient can lie down on the couch so that the ophthalmologist begins the examination using a tonometer. The device consists of special weights - hollow metal cylinders weighing 10 g. They are moistened using a special pigment paint.
3. The tonometer is placed directly in the central cornea. Measurements are usually taken first on the right eye, then on the left. The weights put pressure on the cornea, and the paint remains on it.
4. Then the imprint is made on paper, after which, using a ruler, it is determined how much of the dye has disappeared after the device touched the eyeball.
5. When the measurements are completed, the organs of vision are instilled with drops with a disinfecting effect.

What is the essence of Maklakov’s technique? The softer the eyeball, the more color the device used will leave on it. That is, the study speaks of decreased ophthalmotonus.

This type of tonometer helps to obtain more accurate data compared to the previous method. .

You should be aware that intraocular pressure may fluctuate slightly throughout the day, and this is considered normal. If glaucoma is present, the fluctuations will be more pronounced.

Therefore, a tonometer will be needed to measure twice - in the morning and in the evening.

Features of non-contact tonometry

This method is contactless. That is, the apparatus used during the examination does not touch the organs of vision. Thus, there is no risk of infection.

The non-contact method is good because:

1. After diagnosis, the patient will not suffer from pain or any other unpleasant sensations.
2. The device allows you to get the necessary results in a short time. In just a few seconds, the tonometer will show the state of the visual apparatus, that is, whether there is a threat of illness.

After the patient fixes his head, he should look at the light point with wide open eyes. A non-contact tonometer, using an air flow directed into the eyes, changes the corneal shape for some time. The level of ophthalmotonus depends on how much this form has changed.

The device is not harmful to health, but the accuracy of Maklakov’s technique is much higher.

At home, you can use a portable device for measurement - the ICare tonometer. There is no need for anesthetics, and the technique itself is quite simple. If necessary, anyone can conduct the study as carefully and painlessly as possible.

Tonometry should be performed regularly. Its results will depend on the methods that the specialist considers necessary to use.

Pressing headaches in the eyes and temples are a common companion for office workers. During the next attack, it is difficult for them to read, especially if the text is written in small print, and in general any attempts to focus their vision on the flickering monitor screen seem unbearable. The easiest way to explain this condition is by banal fatigue, but not everything is as simple as it seems at first glance. The cause may be increased intraocular pressure, and if this diagnosis is confirmed at an appointment with an ophthalmologist, neither rest nor the problem will solve it. You need to take measures and drops, and do it as soon as possible - the risk of developing glaucoma at this stage is already very high.

The structure of the eye has a complex structure, but it is not necessary to study it all in detail to understand what intraocular pressure is and why it suddenly deviates from the norm. It is enough to imagine the eye as a liquid surrounded by multiple membranes. The outer one is the sclera, behind it is a network of blood vessels, and even deeper is the ciliary body. When the muscles contract, the shape of the lens changes and the person can see something up close. But this is not the only function of the ciliary body.

Another important task assigned to it is the secretion of intraocular fluid. By circulating between the various chambers of the eye, it ensures normal metabolism and maintains a certain level of intraocular pressure (IOP). In other words, the fluid secreted by the ciliary body constantly puts pressure on the eye, setting the parameters of its normal size and shape. As soon as the amount of this fluid increases excessively or there are problems with its outflow, the pressure will jump. This will entail distortion of the shape, and, consequently, of the entire optical system of the eye.

Important! Intraocular pressure directly affects the quality and acuity of vision. When it deviates from the norm, the shape of the eyeball changes and the mechanisms of accommodation that allow close vision are disrupted.

Normal blood pressure and pathology

Intraocular pressure may fluctuate slightly depending on what time of day the test is performed, but in general it is a constant value. In the morning, intraocular pressure may jump by 2-3 marks. Most likely, the reason lies in the horizontal position of the body, slowing of the pulse and breathing, as well as the predominance of the parasympathetic nervous system during sleep. By evening the pressure gradually drops.

Normal intraocular pressure ranges between 10 and 21 mm. Hg column, although much depends on how the measurement is carried out. These numbers are the limit of true pressure, but if you try to determine it using a tonometric method, the norm will be different - from 12 to 25 mm. Hg Art. That is, it is simply not correct to compare indicators obtained by different methods.

Important! In domestic ophthalmological clinics, the method of the Russian researcher Maklakov is used to measure intraocular pressure. According to it, normal intraocular pressure is that which is below 26 mm Hg, from 27 to 32 mm Hg. Art. – moderately elevated, more than 33 mm Hg. - a reason to take action.

Measurement according to Maklakov

1. The patient lies down on the couch, and the doctor administers anesthesia by instilling several drops of dicaine into each eye in turn.
2. Then the head is fixed and asked to look at one point.
3. A small weight treated with special marking paint is carefully lowered onto the open eye, under the pressure of which the eyeball should be slightly deformed.
4. Now the weight is lowered onto a sheet of paper to see how much paint is left on it. Intraocular pressure is determined by the intensity of the imprint.
5. The procedure is repeated again in both eyes to avoid the possibility of misinterpretation.

Naturally, some amount of paint from the load will remain on the surface of the eyeball, but it will quickly be washed away with tears. Instead of weights, ophthalmologists sometimes use a portable device that looks like a ballpoint pen. They also apply pressure on the eye, having previously treated the eyeball with an anesthetic.

This method also has an alternative -. No weights are placed on the eye, but instead a controlled air flow is used. Many patients find this method more acceptable, but in reality it is rarely used - it is not as accurate.

Important! In patients with glaucoma, eye pressure fluctuates much more noticeably throughout the day than in healthy people. Having such suspicions, the doctor may ask the patient to come to the clinic several times throughout the day. To ensure the accuracy of the diagnosis, you need to measure your blood pressure at least three times before lunch, and the same number in the evening.

How to measure the pressure inside the eye yourself?

Without the help of a doctor and special equipment, it is impossible to determine with what force the fluid secreted by the ciliary body presses on the eye. Nevertheless, it is possible to understand that blood pressure is greatly increased, and ophthalmologists recommend that everyone master this simple technique.

Close your eyes and relax. Now gently press your index finger on the eyeball. You should feel an elastic ball that gives in to your pressure - this is normal. If the eye is very hard and practically does not deform, most likely the IOP level is elevated and it is better to consult a specialist to make sure that its value is not critical.

5 main symptoms of intraocular pressure

At first, the syndrome of increased IOP does not manifest itself in any special way. Headaches and eye fatigue may occur from time to time, especially when standing in front of a monitor or in a room with poor lighting. But no serious vision problems have arisen yet.

Over time, when chronically elevated eye pressure becomes a symptom of the early stages of glaucoma, the patient complains of:

1. frequent migraines and severe eye pain;
2. general deterioration of vision;
3. “floaters” and rainbow circles before the eyes;
4. almost complete blindness in darkness and twilight;
5. a significant narrowing of the visual fields - it is no longer possible to look at something from the side “out of the corner of the eye”, each time you need to turn your head and strain your eyes.

Important! With glaucoma, acute attacks are possible, when the pressure jumps sharply to 60-70 mm Hg. Art. This condition is accompanied not only by complete blurred vision, but also by general malaise - dizziness, nausea, and vomiting may begin. In this case, the sooner the ambulance arrives, the higher the chances of preserving not only the vision, but also the patient’s life.

Why does intraocular pressure increase?

Two parts are responsible for the regulation of intraocular pressure - the nervous system and some hormones. That is why most often a temporary increase in IOP is associated with increased mental work, stress and the experience of violent emotions. In women, the risk of glaucoma can develop during menopause, when large-scale hormonal changes occur in the body.

So, the true cause of IOP most often needs to be looked for in one of the following directions.

1. Chronic stressful situations, prolonged mental or physical stress.
2. Problems with the cardiovascular system that provoke surges in blood pressure.
3. Some kidney diseases, due to which a lot of fluid is retained in the body.
4. Endocrine pathologies, in particular increased levels of adrenal hormones in the blood, hypothyroidism.
5. Anatomical pathology in the structure of the eyeball. People suffering from atherosclerosis should be especially careful in this regard.

In any case, it is important to understand that intraocular pressure does not suddenly increase on its own, it is always a consequence. Sometimes - hidden pathological processes occurring in the body, and sometimes - diseases associated directly with the eyes. So, a jump in IOP can be provoked by:

• an eye tumor that puts pressure on the inner membranes and chambers of the eye, thereby interfering with the normal outflow of fluid;
• inflammatory disease of the iris (iritis), ciliary body (cyclitis), choroid ();
• severe eye injury, after which inflammation, swelling and stagnation of blood in the vessels inevitably appears.

Important! Under any of the above circumstances, IOP cannot be critically high all the time. It increases periodically, in jumps, which depend on the characteristics of the course of the disease that provokes it. But if the pathology is not found and treated, then with age, increased IOP can transform into glaucoma. Gradually, due to strong pressure, the retinal cells will be destroyed, the optic nerve will atrophy, and eventually the person will completely lose vision.

How to relieve intraocular pressure?

Trying to deal with the consequences without eliminating the cause is useless. That is why, if you notice that your eyes are constantly tired, red and very tense, you need to look for a reason that provokes periodic jumps in intraocular pressure. Further, the method of eye restoration will depend on how neglected everything is.

If we are talking about the initial stages and barely noticeable symptoms, then, most likely, preventive measures alone will be sufficient:

• master a set of eye exercises and devote a few minutes a day to it;
• choose safety glasses for reading and standing in front of a monitor;
• As far as possible, limit any eye strain - TV, computer, working with small parts;
• give up contact and strength sports;
• Spend free time outdoors, giving your eyes a chance to rest and look into the distance.

Treatment of intraocular pressure with drops

When high IOP ceases to be episodic and develops into ocular hypertension or hypotension, preventive measures alone are not enough - timely local treatment is needed. With such diagnoses, the easiest way to regulate the pressure in the eye is with eye drops. They come in several types.

1. Those that act directly on the ciliary body and reduce fluid production are carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. The most popular of this group are “Azopt” and “”. By reducing the amount of intraocular fluid, the pressure also decreases, but this process can be accompanied by burning, severe redness of the eyes and even a bitter taste in the mouth.
2. The second category is prostaglandins. They operate on a different principle: they affect not the amount of fluid, but its intensive outflow. If this is precisely the problem, “”, “Taflotan” and “” are most often prescribed. But they also have side effects - the iris of the eye may darken.
3. Beta blockers - for example, Timolol, Okumol, Okupress, Arutimol, Okumed and the more modern Betoptik. They also reduce the amount of fluid formed in the eye, but have one significant nuance - together with eye pressure, they reduce the heart rate, which is strictly contraindicated for heart patients.

There are also combination drugs that act in two directions: on the one hand, they inhibit the process of fluid production, and on the other, they increase its outflow. This category includes “Xalacom”, “Fotil”, “Kosopt”.

Important! On average, drops are used twice a day, but the exact dosage and frequency of instillation can only be determined by a doctor, having an accurate description of the clinical picture. By self-medicating, you can not only further damage your vision, but also damage your cardiovascular system, lungs and kidneys.

Relieving intraocular pressure at home

If you feel pressure in your eyes, but cannot immediately get an appointment with an ophthalmologist, then instead of drops you can try to relieve painful symptoms using traditional methods. Helps normalize eye pressure:

• meadow clover decoction (brew with boiling water, leave for 2 hours and drink 100 g before bedtime);
• tincture of golden mustache (pour about 20 purple inflorescences with 500 grams of vodka and leave in a dark place for 12 days, then take one teaspoon before breakfast);
• a glass of kefir with cinnamon.

No matter how tempting such treatment may seem, ophthalmologists do not recommend relying too much on it. Such recipes can be used only if the pressure jumps rarely and not greatly. Trying to get rid of serious symptoms that indicate progressive blindness in this way is simply dangerous.

Most of these arrogant patients, when they finally get to the ophthalmologist’s office, hear one thing: “an operation is necessary.” A laser is used to relieve high intraocular pressure. Depending on where the problem is located, they can either excise the iris or stretch the trabecula to increase the flow of fluid.

If you don't want to end up in the operating room, take the advice of ophthalmologists seriously and constantly engage in prevention. A five-minute break every hour of working near the computer, a simple set of gymnastic exercises for the eyes, a dinner of sea fish and blueberry-carrot snacks - and you will maintain sharp vision for many years!

Content

An important indicator in diagnosing ophthalmological diseases or visual impairment is pressure in the eyes, or intraocular pressure (IOP). Pathological processes cause its decrease or increase. Untimely treatment of the disease can cause glaucoma and vision loss.

What is eye pressure

Ocular pressure is the amount of tone that occurs between the contents of the eyeball and its membrane. About 2 cubic meters enter the eye every minute. mm of liquid and the same amount flows out. When the outflow process is disrupted for a certain reason, moisture accumulates in the organ, causing an increase in IOP. In this case, the capillaries through which the liquid moves are deformed, which increases the problem. Doctors classify such changes as:

• transient type – increase for a short period of time and normalization without medications;
• labile pressure - periodic increase with independent return to normal;
• stable type – constant excess of the norm.

A decrease in IOP (eye hypotony) is a rare phenomenon, but very dangerous. It is difficult to determine the pathology, because the disease is hidden. Patients often seek specialized care when they experience significant vision loss. Possible causes of this condition include: eye injuries, infectious diseases, diabetes mellitus, hypotension. The only symptom of the disorder may be dry eyes and lack of shine.

How is eye pressure measured?

There are several methods that are carried out in a hospital setting to find out the patient's condition. It is impossible to determine the disease on your own. Modern ophthalmologists measure eye pressure in three ways:

• tonometry according to Maklakov;
• pneumotonometer;
• electronograph.

The first technique requires local anesthesia, since the cornea is affected by a foreign body (weight), and the procedure causes slight discomfort. The weight is placed in the center of the cornea, after the procedure imprints remain on it. The doctor takes prints, measures them and deciphers them. Determination of ophthalmotonus using a Maklakov tonometer began more than 100 years ago, but the method is considered highly accurate today. Doctors prefer to measure indicators with this equipment.

Pneumotonometry operates on the same principle, only the effect is exerted by an air stream. The research is carried out quickly, but the result is not always accurate. Electronograph is the most modern equipment for measuring IOP in a non-contact, painless and safe manner. The technique is based on enhancing the production of intraocular fluid and accelerating its outflow. If equipment is not available, the doctor can check using palpation. By pressing the index fingers on the eyelids, based on tactile sensations, the specialist draws conclusions about the density of the eyeballs.

Eye pressure is normal

Iphthalmotonus is measured in millimeters of mercury. For a child and an adult, the norm of intraocular pressure varies from 9 to 23 mm Hg. Art. During the day, the indicator may change, for example, in the evening it may be lower than in the morning. When measuring ophthalmotonus according to Maklakov, the normal figures are slightly higher - from 15 to 26 mm. Hg Art. This is due to the fact that the weight of the tonometer puts additional pressure on the eyes.

Intraocular pressure is normal in adults

For middle-aged men and women, IOP should range from 9 to 21 mmHg. Art. You should be aware that intraocular pressure in adults may change throughout the day. Early in the morning the indicators are highest, in the evening they are lowest. The amplitude of oscillations does not exceed 5 mmHg. Art. Sometimes exceeding the norm is an individual characteristic of the body and is not a pathology. In this case, there is no need to reduce it.

Normal intraocular pressure after 60 years

With age, the risk of developing glaucoma increases, so after 40 years it is important to undergo a fundus examination, measure ophthalmotonus and take all the necessary tests several times a year. Aging of the body affects every human system and organ, including the eyeball. The norm of intraocular pressure after 60 years is slightly higher than at a young age. A reading of up to 26 mmHg is considered normal. Art., if measured with a Maklakov tonometer.

Increased intraocular pressure

Discomfort and vision problems in most cases are caused by increased intraocular pressure. This problem often occurs in older people, but also young men and women, and sometimes even children can suffer from illnesses with such symptoms. The definition of pathology is available only to a doctor. The patient may only notice symptoms that should prompt a visit to a specialist. This will help to cure the disease in a timely manner. How the doctor will reduce the indicators depends on the degree of the disease and its characteristics.

Increased eye pressure - causes

Before prescribing therapy for the pathology, the ophthalmologist must determine the causes of increased eye pressure. Modern medicine identifies several main factors by which IOP can increase:

• a functional disorder in the functioning of the body, as a result of which the secretion of fluid in the organs of vision is activated;
• disruptions in the functions of the cardiovascular system, which cause hypertension and increased ophthalmotonus;
• heavy physical or psychological stress;
• stressful situations;
• as a consequence of a previous illness;
• age-related changes;
• chemical poisoning;
• anatomical changes in the organs of vision: atherosclerosis, farsightedness.

Eye pressure - symptoms

Depending on the intensity of the increase in ophthalmotonus, various symptoms may occur. If the increase is insignificant, then it is almost impossible to detect the problem unless an examination is carried out. Symptoms in this case are not expressed. With significant deviations from the norm, symptoms of eye pressure may manifest as follows:

• headache localized at the temples;
• pain when moving the eyeball in any direction;
• high eye fatigue;
• a feeling of heaviness in the organs of vision;
• pressing feeling in the eyes;
• visual impairment;
• discomfort when working at a computer or reading a book.

Symptoms of eye pressure in men

Deviations from the norm of ophthalmotonus occur equally among the two sexes of the planet's population. Symptoms of eye pressure in men are no different from those characteristic of women. In persistent acute conditions, the patient experiences the following symptoms of intraocular pressure:

• twilight vision impairment;
• progressive deterioration of vision;
• headache with migraine character;
• reduction of the radius of vision in the corners;
• rainbow circles, spots before the eyes.

Symptoms of eye pressure in women

Ophthalmologists do not divide the symptoms of ophthalmotonus into female and male. Symptoms of eye pressure in women do not differ from the signs that signal a violation in men. Additional symptoms that may occur with the problem include:

• dizziness;
• blurred vision;
• tearfulness;
• redness of the eyes.

How to relieve eye pressure at home

Iphthalmotonus is treated in different ways: tablets and eye drops, folk remedies. Your doctor will be able to determine which treatment methods will give good results. You can relieve eye pressure at home and normalize the indicators in a person, provided the degree of the problem is not high and eye function is preserved, using simple measures:

• do eye exercises every day;
• limit computer work, reduce time spent watching TV and eliminate other activities that strain your eyesight;
• use drops to moisturize your eyes;
• walk outdoors more often.

Drops to reduce intraocular pressure

Sometimes ophthalmologists suggest lowering the readings with the help of special drops. IOP should be lowered only after consulting a doctor. The pharmacological industry offers a variety of drops for intraocular pressure, the action of which is aimed at the outflow of accumulated fluid. All drugs are divided into the following types:

• prostaglandins;
• carbonic anhydrase inhibitors;
• cholinomimetics;
• beta blockers.

Eye pressure tablets

As an additional measure in the treatment of increased ophthalmotonus, specialists prescribe medications for oral administration. The medicine for eye pressure is designed to remove excess fluid from the body, improve blood circulation in the brain and the body's metabolic processes. When using diuretics in therapy, potassium supplements are prescribed, since the substance is washed out of the body when taking such medications.

Folk remedies for eye pressure

Traditional healers also know how to reduce intraocular pressure. There are many recipes made from natural ingredients that help get rid of high IOP. Treatment with folk remedies allows you to bring the levels down to normal and does not allow them to rise over time. Folk remedies for eye pressure include the following measures:

1. Brew meadow clover and leave for 2 hours. Drink 100 ml decoction at night.
2. Add 1 pinch of cinnamon to a glass of kefir. Drink if IOP increases.
3. Freshly brewed eyebright decoction (25 g of herb per 0.5 boiling water) should be cooled and strained through cheesecloth. Apply lotions throughout the day.
4. Wash 5-6 aloe leaves and cut into pieces. Pour a glass of boiling water over the herbal ingredient and boil for 5 minutes. Use the resulting decoction to wash the eyes 5 times a day.
5. Natural tomato juice helps get rid of increased ophthalmotonus if you drink it 1 glass a day.
6. Grate peeled potatoes (2 pcs.), add 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. Mix the ingredients and leave for 20 minutes. Afterwards, put the pulp on gauze and use it as a compress.

Video: how to check eye pressure

Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials in the article do not encourage self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and give treatment recommendations based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.

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Eye pressure - norm and measurement. Symptoms and treatment of high eye pressure at home

When assessing the condition of the visual organ, special attention is paid to determining the pressure inside the eyeballs. Known methods for measuring eye pressure differ in their technique and have some features.

Intraocular pressure (IOP) is the force with which the contents of the eyeball press on its walls. It maintains the shape of the eye and regulates a constant level of nutrients. The IOP value depends on the following indicators:

• production and outflow of internal fluid;
• pupil width;
• level of tone of the outer membranes of the eye (sclera and cornea);
• sensitivity and degree of filling of the choroid and capillaries of the ciliary body;

A healthy person has a clear mutual regulation of all elements. The level of intraocular pressure fluctuates throughout the day, this is normal. Typically, muscle and vascular tone is higher in the morning. But these fluctuations are insignificant and do not affect the condition of the eyes in any way.

If changes in IOP under the influence of negative factors cause anatomical or functional disorders of the eye, then serious diseases are possible. Fluctuations in pressure can be associated with eye pathologies, as well as with disturbances in the functioning of other organs and systems.

The IOP norm does not depend on age, and its readings are approximately the same in adults and children. On average, it ranges from 10 to 25 mmHg and depends on the method chosen for measurement.

Determination methods

How to measure intraocular pressure? If necessary, eye tonometry is used. During this procedure, the degree of elasticity of the eyeball is determined, based on measuring the level of its deformation during external exposure (with a tonometer).

• There are 2 types of changes in the shape of the cornea:
• impression, or depression;

applanation, or flattening.

All tonometers and techniques for measuring intraocular pressure are divided into impression and applanation. The first impression device was created in 1862 by Graefe, which was crude, complex and not entirely accurate. More progressive was the Schiotz tonometer, which appeared in 1862 and became widespread. The applanation technique began with the Maklakov tonometer, invented in 1884.

• Measuring intraocular pressure differs in the technique used. All methods are divided into the following types:
• palpation (indicative);
• contact (using tonometers);

contactless.

Palpation method of examination How to determine eye pressure using this method? The palpation, or finger, method allows you to give a rough estimate of fundus pressure.

The patient is asked to sit on the couch, close his eyelids and look down. The doctor carefully places his index fingers on the upper eyelid and applies gentle pressure.

This method requires some experience and is used in cases where instrumental methods are impossible: for injuries, surgical interventions. In other cases, eye pressure is measured using tonometry.

The simplest and therefore inaccurate method for diagnosing increased IOP is palpation

Applanation tonometry method

How eye pressure is measured using the principle of corneal flattening can be understood using the example of the Maklakov tonometer.

The method is simple and accurate. The advantages of the device include its low cost. Among the disadvantages, it should be noted the possibility of infection in the eye, as with any other contact method.

1. Tonometry according to Maklakov is carried out using a set of weights of different weights. The tonometer itself is a metal cylinder, hollow inside. At the ends of the device there are polished plates of frosted glass. Their diameter is 1 mm. The study describes the following algorithm:
2. The tonometer areas are disinfected and lubricated with a thin layer of special paint. It is applied by touching the device to a stamp from a set of tonometers. Excess paint is removed with a sterile swab.
3. The patient lies down on the couch, and the examining specialist takes a place at his head. Anesthesia is instilled into the conjunctival sac. Typically this is a 0.5% dicaine solution. The treatment is carried out twice with a minute break. The doctor spreads the eyelids, pressing the edges to the periosteum. A weight weighing 10 g is lowered perpendicularly into the eye being measured onto the cornea. IOP in each eye is measured separately. Doctors usually start the examination with the right eye.
4. The force of the weight flattens the cornea. At the point of contact with the device, the paint is erased, and a round imprint (white disk) remains on the base of the tonometer. The latter is transferred to a paper sheet moistened with alcohol and the diameter is measured with a ruler, which has divisions in mm r. Art. The larger the contact area (i.e., the softer the eyeball), the lower the ophthalmotonus.

At the end of the procedure, be sure to apply antiseptic drops to avoid infection.

This method is more accurate and reliable compared to finger diagnostics. The IOP norm with this method is in the range from 18 to 25 mm R. Art. To determine the true pressure, the tonometric value should be reduced by 4-5 units.

Modern methods of applanation tonometry As you can see, this device is not perfect. Compared to Maklakov’s technology, this method is more accurate, quick and painless, since the elasticity of the cornea is measured by mechanical impact on the eyeball through the eyelid.

Another improved version of the applanation tonometry method is the Goldmann tonometer. It is mounted on a slit lamp and has a prism that is applied to the cornea. Anesthesia and instillation of a fluorescein solution are preliminarily performed.

An illuminated prism makes it possible to observe the tear menisci, which, as a result of light refraction, have the appearance of two half rings. Then the cornea is flattened by adjustable prism pressure until the half-rings converge into a single point. The IOP value is determined using an instrument scale.

Impression tonometry method

How to check eye pressure if the cornea is curved and it is impossible to cover a large area? In this case, the Schiotz method is used. The measurement is carried out by pressing on the eyeball with a rod with a constant mass. The procedure is carried out with preliminary anesthesia. The amount of indentation is determined in linear quantities, and then using special nomograms it is converted into mm r. Art.

Non-contact method for measuring IOP

This method eliminates all the disadvantages of previous methods. It is based on the use of tonometers, which are complex electronic devices. The patient sits in front of the device and focuses his gaze on a specific target. The measurement is carried out using an air jet, which affects the cornea and makes it possible to obtain a quick and accurate result. The method is completely painless and is called pneumotonometry.

How to measure eye pressure at home? Using a compact non-contact tonometer is a good alternative to examination in a medical facility. This device is convenient because it has an automatic eye search mode in all axes, does not require manual adjustment, is safe and gives accurate results in a short time. Determining eye pressure at home can be done at any convenient time. This procedure does not require special skills and is completely painless.

You should be aware that each method and type of instrument produces slightly different data. It is impossible to compare them with each other, since this is a feature of each method. If there is a need to monitor the dynamics of ophthalmotonus, then regular checks must be carried out with the same device. In this case, the results will be comparable and a conclusion can be made about the condition of the patient’s eyes.

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