High Eye Pressure: Symptoms and Solutions Explained - Ophthalmology

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How to manage high intraocular pressure?


I would like to ask...
I experience elevated intraocular pressure about 2-3 times a year, but during my previous examinations at your clinic and at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, my pressure was normal.
Even the fundus photography showed no issues.
However, I am still unsure about what is happening.
I mentioned to the doctor that whenever my intraocular pressure rises, my left eye starts to blur, and I experience sharp pain in the upper right area of my head, sometimes even feeling nauseous.
The doctor suggested it could be triggered by migraines, but when I researched online, the symptoms seem very similar to those of elevated intraocular pressure...

Lily, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/13

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology


Hello, high intraocular pressure accompanied by headaches and nausea is a symptom of acute angle-closure glaucoma, which is different from your condition.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Tsai Wen-Yuan, Chief of Ophthalmology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2019/07/13

More Info


High eye pressure, also known as ocular hypertension, can be a concerning issue, especially for individuals with a history of eye problems or conditions like myopia (nearsightedness). Your symptoms, including blurred vision in one eye, localized pain in the other, and nausea, can indeed be alarming and may lead to concerns about conditions such as glaucoma. However, it is essential to understand the nuances of these symptoms and their potential causes.

Firstly, it is important to note that high eye pressure does not always correlate with symptoms. Many individuals with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) may not experience any noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred, particularly in the case of glaucoma. The symptoms you describe, such as blurred vision and pain, could be indicative of several conditions, including migraine-related issues, tension headaches, or even eye strain, rather than solely high eye pressure.

The fact that your eye pressure readings have been normal during examinations is a positive sign. Fluctuations in eye pressure can occur due to various factors, including stress, anxiety, or even the position of the body during measurement. It is also possible that the discomfort you experience is related to muscle tension around the eyes or even sinus issues, which can mimic the symptoms of high eye pressure.

Regarding the potential for migraines, it is indeed plausible that your symptoms could be related to migraine headaches, especially if you have a history of migraines. Migraines can cause visual disturbances, including blurred vision, and can be accompanied by nausea and localized pain. It is essential to differentiate between these types of headaches and those caused by elevated eye pressure, as the treatment approaches may differ significantly.

If you are experiencing these symptoms frequently, it is advisable to keep a detailed log of when they occur, their duration, and any associated activities or stressors. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the underlying cause of your symptoms.

As for your concern about glaucoma, it is crucial to follow up with your eye care professional. If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you have any new symptoms, it would be prudent to seek an earlier appointment rather than waiting for your scheduled visit. Early detection and treatment of glaucoma are vital in preventing irreversible vision loss.

In the meantime, consider implementing some eye care practices to alleviate discomfort. The 20-20-20 rule is a helpful guideline: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This practice can help reduce eye strain, especially if you spend long hours in front of a computer screen. Additionally, ensure that you are maintaining proper hydration and managing stress, as both can impact eye health.

In summary, while your symptoms may be concerning, they do not definitively indicate high eye pressure or glaucoma. It is essential to continue monitoring your symptoms, maintain regular eye examinations, and communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns. By doing so, you can ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly and effectively.

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