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Ocular Hypertension

Elevated intraocular pressure without optic nerve damage or visual field loss

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göz Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Ocular Hypertension?

Ocular hypertension is defined as IOP consistently above 21 mmHg with a normal optic disc, normal visual field, and no evidence of retinal nerve fibre layer thinning on OCT.

Not every patient with elevated IOP develops glaucoma — the Ocular Hypertension Treatment Study (OHTS) showed about 9.5% of untreated patients progressed to glaucoma over 5 years.

The underlying mechanism is an imbalance between aqueous humor production in the ciliary body and outflow through the trabecular meshwork and Schlemm's canal.

Management is individualised based on IOP level, central corneal thickness, cup-to-disc ratio, age, and family history.

Symptoms

Usually asymptomatic and detected incidentally at routine eye exam
Mild eye pressure sensation or fullness in some patients
Occasional headache (uncommon)
Halos around lights at very high IOP
Transient blurred vision at markedly elevated IOP

Risk Factors

Family history of glaucoma
Age over 40 years
Myopia (nearsightedness)
Thin central corneal thickness (<555 µm)
Prolonged topical or systemic corticosteroid use
African or Hispanic ancestry

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If elevated IOP is detected on routine eye examination
  • If there is a family history of glaucoma
  • If long-term steroid therapy is required (inhaled, topical, oral)

Treatment Methods

01
Regular IOP monitoring with Goldmann applanation tonometry
02
Visual field testing and OCT of the optic nerve every 6-12 months
03
Prostaglandin analogue drops (latanoprost, bimatoprost) for high-risk patients
04
Topical beta-blockers (timolol) as alternative first-line therapy
05
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in selected patients
06
Central corneal thickness measurement to adjust IOP target

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göz Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göz Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.