Eye Pressure: What It Means, Why It Matters, and How to Manage It

When doctors talk about eye pressure, the force inside the eye caused by fluid buildup. Also known as intraocular pressure, it’s not something you feel—but it can quietly damage your vision if it stays too high. Most people have eye pressure between 10 and 21 mm Hg. Anything above 21 is considered elevated, and while it doesn’t always mean glaucoma, it’s a major red flag that needs checking.

High eye pressure doesn’t cause pain, blurry vision, or discomfort—so you won’t know it’s there unless you get tested. That’s why regular eye exams are non-negotiable, especially after age 40. The real danger isn’t the pressure itself, but what it can lead to: glaucoma, a group of eye diseases that destroy the optic nerve. Once nerve damage happens, it’s permanent. The good news? Catching high eye pressure early gives you time to act. Treatments like prescription eye drops, laser therapy, or even lifestyle changes can bring pressure down before harm occurs.

Not all high eye pressure turns into glaucoma. Some people have ocular hypertension, elevated pressure without nerve damage. Still, they’re at higher risk, so monitoring is key. Factors like family history, diabetes, thin corneas, or being over 60 raise your chances. Even certain medications—like long-term steroid use—can spike pressure. And yes, your daily habits matter. Sitting for hours with your head down, smoking, or skipping eye exams all add up.

You won’t find eye pressure on a blood test or a routine checkup. It takes a quick, painless test called tonometry—where a puff of air or a gentle probe measures the force inside your eye. If your numbers are high, your eye doctor will check your optic nerve, visual field, and cornea thickness to see if glaucoma is developing. No guessing. No delays.

What you’ll find in the articles below aren’t generic tips or marketing fluff. These are real, practical insights from people who’ve been there: how to track pressure changes, which supplements might help or hurt, how to avoid meds that raise pressure, and what to ask your doctor when you’re told your numbers are high. No scare tactics. Just clear, usable info to help you protect your sight before it’s too late.