Eye Pressure: Concerns for High Myopia Patients

Q: Eye Pressure: Concerns for High Myopia Patients

Hello LIN： If you have elevated intraocular pressure, it is also important to assess the thickness of the cornea. <br>An intraocular pressure of 20-22 mmHg generally does not produce noticeable symptoms. <br>Whether medication is needed should be evaluated based on the condition

Intraocular pressure related?

Hello Dr.
Gao, I have high myopia (around -800) and regularly undergo eye examinations.
In previous years, my intraocular pressure (IOP) was approximately 17-18 mmHg, but last month, during an examination for conjunctivitis, my IOP was found to be around 20-22 mmHg.
A few days later, it returned to 19 mmHg.
However, recently I have been experiencing a feeling of dryness and fullness upon waking, and my eyeballs feel swollen to the touch, although this sensation improves after I wash my face or blink.
I would like to know if this is a sign of elevated IOP.
Additionally, I would like to ask about the follow-up protocol for monitoring IOP.
If my IOP has returned to normal but was previously elevated, how long should I wait before the next follow-up? Should the follow-up be conducted at a specific time of day for more accurate results? Lastly, would you recommend medication for an IOP of around 20-22 mmHg? Thank you for your assistance!

LIN, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/30

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello LIN: If you have elevated intraocular pressure, it is also important to assess the thickness of the cornea.
An intraocular pressure of 20-22 mmHg generally does not produce noticeable symptoms.
Whether medication is needed should be evaluated based on the condition of the optic nerve and visual field.
As for the frequency of follow-up, it should be determined based on the examination results, so it is best to discuss this with your attending physician.
Please refer to: https://bit.ly/3AipW2Q

Reply Date: 2022/06/30

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding eye pressure, especially as it relates to high myopia. It's important to address these concerns comprehensively, as they can significantly impact your eye health.

Firstly, regarding your experience of feeling a "dry and swollen" sensation in your eyes upon waking, this could be attributed to several factors. While elevated eye pressure can lead to discomfort, the symptoms you're describing—particularly if they improve with movement or blinking—might also be related to dry eye syndrome or even transient ocular pressure changes. High myopia can predispose individuals to various ocular conditions, including glaucoma, which is characterized by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and can lead to optic nerve damage. However, the sensation you’re experiencing does not definitively indicate high eye pressure.

In terms of monitoring your eye pressure, it’s crucial to maintain regular check-ups, especially since you have a history of fluctuating pressures. The general recommendation for individuals with a history of elevated IOP or other risk factors for glaucoma is to have their eye pressure checked at least once a year. However, if you have experienced higher readings (like 20-22 mmHg), it may be prudent to follow up more frequently, perhaps every 3 to 6 months, depending on your eye care provider's advice.

As for the timing of your eye pressure checks, it is generally advisable to have them done at different times of the day. Eye pressure can fluctuate throughout the day, often being lower in the morning and higher later in the day. Therefore, measuring at different times can provide a more comprehensive understanding of your IOP patterns.

Regarding the question of whether you should be on medication for your eye pressure, the decision typically depends on several factors, including your overall eye health, the stability of your IOP readings, and any signs of optic nerve damage. An IOP of 20-22 mmHg is considered borderline high, especially in the context of your high myopia. If your eye care professional has not recommended medication yet, it may be because your pressures have returned to a more normal range and there are no other concerning signs. However, if you continue to experience symptoms or if your pressures fluctuate significantly, discussing the initiation of topical medications to lower IOP may be warranted.

In summary, while your symptoms may not directly indicate high eye pressure, they should not be ignored. Regular monitoring of your eye pressure is essential, especially given your history of high myopia. If you have any concerns about your symptoms or eye pressure, it’s always best to consult with your eye care provider sooner rather than later. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation and help ensure that your eyes remain healthy. Thank you for reaching out, and I hope this information helps clarify your concerns!

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