What Are the Symptoms of High Intraocular Pressure?

High intraocular pressure (IOP) is a condition that can quietly threaten your vision if left undetected. Often associated with glaucoma, elevated eye pressure can damage the optic nerve over time - sometimes without obvious warning signs. Understanding the symptoms of high intraocular pressure and the importance of routine glaucoma exams is essential to protecting your long-term eye health.

What Is Intraocular Pressure?

Intraocular pressure refers to the fluid pressure inside the eye. Your eyes continuously produce and drain a clear fluid called aqueous humor. When this fluid doesn’t drain properly, pressure can build up inside the eye. While not everyone with high eye pressure develops glaucoma, elevated IOP is one of the most significant risk factors for this vision-threatening disease.

Common Symptoms of High Intraocular Pressure

One of the most concerning aspects of high intraocular pressure is that it often has no noticeable symptoms, especially in its early stages. This is why glaucoma is sometimes called the “silent thief of sight.” However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Blurred or hazy vision
• Eye pain or pressure
• Headaches, particularly around the eyes or forehead
• Halos around lights
• Redness of the eyes

Because these symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for other issues, many people are unaware there is a problem until vision loss has already begun.

Why Routine Glaucoma Exams Are Critical

Since high intraocular pressure can develop without symptoms, routine comprehensive eye exams are the most reliable way to detect it early. Glaucoma exams allow your eye doctor to measure eye pressure, evaluate the optic nerve, and assess your visual field - all critical steps in identifying glaucoma before permanent damage occurs.

Early detection makes a significant difference. When caught early, glaucoma can often be managed effectively with monitoring, medication, or other treatments designed to preserve vision.
 

Advanced Technology for Earlier, More Accurate Detection

At Artisan Eye, we use advanced diagnostic technology to detect even the smallest changes in eye pressure and optic nerve health. Our state-of-the-art imaging and testing tools allow us to identify glaucoma risk earlier and monitor progression with greater precision. This technology helps us tailor care plans to each patient’s unique needs and respond proactively - before vision is affected.
 

Who Is at Higher Risk?

You may be at increased risk for high intraocular pressure and glaucoma if you:

• Are over age 40
• Have a family history of glaucoma
• Have diabetes or high blood pressure
• Are nearsighted or farsighted
• Have experienced eye injuries or long-term steroid use

If you fall into any of these categories, regular glaucoma screenings are especially important.
 

Stay Ahead of Glaucoma with Artisan Eye

High intraocular pressure is often silent, but its consequences can be serious if left untreated. Because symptoms may not appear until vision loss has already occurred, routine glaucoma exams are the best defense against permanent damage. With advanced technology and comprehensive care, early detection can protect your sight for years to come.

Schedule your glaucoma exam at Artisan Eye to help safeguard your vision and eye health. Visit our office in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, or call (941) 2442-2020 to book an appointment today.