Eye Pressure and Glaucoma: Your Questions Answered - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding eye pressure and glaucoma. It's great that you're taking an active interest in your eye health. Let's address your concerns one by one.

1. Eye Pressure and Glaucoma Diagnosis: You mentioned that your eye pressure was measured at 19 mmHg in both eyes, which is generally considered within the normal range (typically 10-21 mmHg). However, diagnosing glaucoma involves more than just measuring eye pressure. It also requires an assessment of the optic nerve and visual field tests. If your doctor indicated that they could not confirm the presence of glaucoma without further testing, it is advisable to follow up with a specialist, especially if you have risk factors for glaucoma (such as family history, age, or high myopia). While monitoring your symptoms at home is important, it is not a substitute for professional evaluation. If you notice any changes in your vision or experience discomfort, seek medical attention promptly.

2. Seeing Halos Around Lights: The phenomenon of seeing halos or rainbow-like circles around bright lights, especially LED lights, can be associated with several conditions, including dry eyes, corneal issues, or even early signs of glaucoma. Your doctor’s comment about halos being more pronounced in glaucoma patients is accurate; however, it’s essential to understand that not everyone who sees halos has glaucoma. The discomfort you feel when looking to the side could be related to eye strain or fatigue, especially if you spend long hours in front of screens. It’s crucial to take regular breaks and practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.


Additional Considerations:
- Regular Eye Exams: Even if you feel your current eye pressure is normal, regular eye exams are vital for early detection of conditions like glaucoma. These exams can include visual field tests and imaging of the optic nerve, which are crucial for a comprehensive assessment.

- Symptoms of Glaucoma: While many people with glaucoma may not experience symptoms until the disease has progressed, some common signs include peripheral vision loss, seeing halos around lights, and eye pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice.

- Managing Eye Health: To protect your eyes, consider lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants (like leafy greens and fish), staying hydrated, and managing stress. Regular physical activity can also help maintain healthy eye pressure.

- Understanding Your Symptoms: If you continue to experience discomfort or visual disturbances, keep a journal of your symptoms and discuss them with your eye care provider. This information can be valuable for diagnosis and treatment.

In conclusion, while your eye pressure reading is within the normal range, it is essential to have a comprehensive eye examination to rule out glaucoma and other potential issues. If you have concerns about your vision or experience any new symptoms, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation. Your eye health is crucial, and proactive management is key to maintaining it.