High Eye Pressure: Is Thick Cornea a Shield Against Glaucoma?

Q: High Eye Pressure: Is Thick Cornea a Shield Against Glaucoma?

Hello Mr. <br>Huang： <br>Your corneal thickness is relatively high, which can result in elevated intraocular pressure measurements; however, there is still a possibility of developing glaucoma. <br>The measured intraocular pressure may be significantly higher than the standard. <

Intraocular pressure issues?

Hello Doctor, my intraocular pressure has been consistently high, around 22-23.
Previously, my fundus examination was normal.
Recently, I visited an ophthalmology clinic where the doctor performed an OCT scan.
He was quite surprised to find that my corneal thickness is 640 micrometers.
My actual intraocular pressure is about 12-13, and he mentioned that I probably have little to no risk of developing glaucoma in my lifetime.
I would like to ask if having such a thick cornea really means I have a low risk of glaucoma.
Thank you.

Mr. Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/08/06

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Mr.
Huang:
Your corneal thickness is relatively high, which can result in elevated intraocular pressure measurements; however, there is still a possibility of developing glaucoma.
The measured intraocular pressure may be significantly higher than the standard.
The doctor is referring to your current intraocular pressure; if it remains at 22 or 23 mmHg, the likelihood of developing glaucoma is low.
However, if there are any future factors that cause an increase in intraocular pressure, there could still be a risk.

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Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2019/08/06

More Info

Understanding the relationship between corneal thickness and glaucoma risk is a nuanced topic in ophthalmology. Your inquiry about whether having a thick cornea (in your case, 640 micrometers) provides a protective effect against glaucoma, especially in the context of consistently high eye pressure readings (22-23 mmHg), is quite relevant.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). However, not everyone with high IOP develops glaucoma, and conversely, some individuals with normal IOP can still develop the disease. This variability underscores the importance of multiple factors in assessing glaucoma risk.

Corneal thickness is one of those factors. Research has shown that individuals with thinner corneas are at a higher risk for developing glaucoma. The cornea acts as a structural barrier and plays a role in the eye's overall pressure dynamics. A thicker cornea can provide some degree of biomechanical strength, potentially reducing the risk of optic nerve damage under elevated pressure conditions. Your ophthalmologist's comment about your corneal thickness being a favorable factor in your glaucoma risk assessment aligns with current understanding in the field.

However, it is crucial to note that while a thick cornea may reduce the likelihood of developing glaucoma, it does not entirely eliminate the risk. Other factors, such as family history, age, race, and the overall health of the optic nerve, also play significant roles in glaucoma development. Therefore, while your corneal thickness is a positive indicator, it should not be the sole factor in determining your risk for glaucoma.

Additionally, your reported IOP levels of 22-23 mmHg are considered elevated, as normal IOP typically ranges from 10 to 21 mmHg. While your corneal thickness may mitigate some risk, it is still advisable to monitor your eye pressure regularly. Elevated IOP can lead to optic nerve damage over time, especially if other risk factors are present. Regular check-ups with your eye care provider, including visual field tests and optic nerve assessments, are essential to ensure that any potential issues are caught early.

In conclusion, while having a thick cornea may provide some protective benefits against glaucoma, it does not guarantee immunity from the disease. It is vital to maintain a proactive approach to your eye health, including regular monitoring of IOP and comprehensive eye exams. If you have concerns about your eye pressure or any symptoms you may be experiencing, do not hesitate to discuss them with your ophthalmologist. They can provide personalized recommendations and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

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