Ocular Hypertension

By Judith Lee and Gretchyn Bailey; reviewed by Vance Thompson, MD

Ocular hypertension means the pressure in your eye, or your intraocular pressure (IOP), is higher than normal levels. Elevated IOP is also associated with glaucoma, which is a more serious condition that causes vision loss and optic nerve damage. By itself, however, ocular hypertension doesn't damage your vision or eyes.

Ocular Hypertension Symptoms and Signs

You can't tell by yourself that you have ocular hypertension, because there are no outward signs such as pain or redness. At each eye exam, your eyecare practitioner will measure your IOP and compare it with normal levels.

What Causes Ocular Hypertension?

Anyone can develop ocular hypertension, but it's most common in African-Americans, people over 40, those with family history of ocular hypertension or glaucoma and those with diabetes or high amounts of nearsightedness.

IOP may become elevated due to excessive aqueous fluid production or inadequate drainage. Certain medications (such as steroids) and trauma can cause lofty IOP as well.

Ocular Hypertension Treatment

People with ocular hypertension are at increased risk for developing glaucoma, so some eye doctors prescribe eyedrops that will lower IOP. Because these medications can have side effects, other eye doctors choose to monitor your IOP and only take action if you show other signs of developing glaucoma. Because of the increased risk for glaucoma, you should have your IOP measured at recommended intervals.

[Page updated June 2007]