Eye Pressure: Symptoms of Glaucoma or Eye Strain? - Ophthalmology

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Hello! Thank you for your question regarding your eye symptoms and concerns about glaucoma. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing some discomfort in your eyes, which can be quite distressing. Let’s break down your symptoms and concerns.

1. Eye Pressure and Symptoms: You mentioned feeling a "pressure" sensation in your eyes without accompanying symptoms like dizziness, headaches, or nausea. This sensation can be caused by various factors, including eye strain, dry eyes, or even tension in the eye muscles. While elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a key indicator of glaucoma, the absence of other symptoms typically associated with high eye pressure (like severe pain, blurred vision, or halos around lights) makes it less likely that you are experiencing chronic glaucoma at this time.

2. Previous Eye Examinations: You have had two eye examinations in the past few months, with normal eye pressure reported in February. It's important to note that eye pressure can fluctuate throughout the day, and a single measurement may not provide a complete picture of your eye health. If your eye doctor did not measure your eye pressure during your May visit, it would be advisable to have it checked again, especially since you are experiencing discomfort.

3. Visual Symptoms: The "rainbow vision" or halos you see at night, particularly around bright lights, can be associated with several conditions. In some cases, it can be a result of corneal irregularities, dry eyes, or even the effects of previous dilation drops. While these symptoms can occur in glaucoma, they are not exclusive to it.
4. Eye Strain vs. Glaucoma: Given that you spend significant time using screens, eye strain is a plausible explanation for your symptoms. Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, which manifests as discomfort, dryness, and visual disturbances. It's essential to practice good eye hygiene, such as taking regular breaks (the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), ensuring proper lighting, and maintaining a comfortable distance from screens.

5. Family History and Risk Factors: You mentioned that there is no family history of eye diseases, which is a positive factor. While genetics can play a role in the development of glaucoma, other risk factors include age, high myopia (which you have), and previous eye injuries. Regular check-ups with your eye doctor are crucial, especially if you have risk factors.

6. Next Steps: Since you are experiencing ongoing symptoms, it would be wise to schedule another appointment with your eye doctor. Request a comprehensive eye exam that includes measuring your intraocular pressure and a thorough assessment of your optic nerve and visual fields. If necessary, your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), to evaluate the health of your optic nerve.

In conclusion, while your symptoms could be related to eye strain, it is essential to rule out any potential issues with intraocular pressure or other eye conditions. Regular monitoring and open communication with your eye care provider will help ensure your eye health is maintained. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical attention sooner than your scheduled appointment. Take care of your eyes, and remember that managing stress and anxiety about your health is also important for your overall well-being.