THE SUBTLE SYMPTOMS OF OCULAR HYPERTENSION

It is no news that some eye issues can cause headaches or dizziness (symptoms), but this is not typically the case with ocular hypertension. We discussed ocular hypertension in our previous post, highlighting its similarities and differences compared to regular hypertension. However, a significant similarity between ocular hypertension and regular hypertension we failed to mention is that they are both tricky because they generally do not present symptoms, meaning you could have ocular hypertension without realizing it!!! Nevertheless, in rare instances of ocular hypertension, you may experience eye discomfort when moving or touching the eyes. You may be curious about the causes of ocular hypertension, especially considering its lack of warning signs, correct? Your curiosity ends here!!

CAUSES OF OCULAR HYPERTENSION

Causes of ocular hypertension include overproduction of fluid (aqueous humor) or issues with the eye’s drainage system, known as the anterior chamber angle. The drainage angle is near the front of the eye, between the iris (the black part of the eye) and the cornea. When the drainage angle is blocked, it leads to fluid and pressure buildup, resulting in ocular hypertension. Reasons for this buildup can include:

I: Eye damage sustained previously.

II: Closure of the drainage angle.

III: Obstruction of the drainage angle by eye cancer.

IV: Inadequate drainage despite an open anterior chamber.

V: Blockage of the drainage angle by pigment or protein flakes.

ARE THEY ANY COMPLICATIONS IF OCULAR HYPERTENSION IS LEFT UNTREATED?

Conversely, if left untreated, these elevated pressures can lead to complications. They could damage the optic nerve, ultimately causing glaucoma. Glaucoma results in vision loss, earning it the moniker “silent thief of eyesight”!!

Are you seeking a reason to visit an optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination; this is your cue to do so. Regular eye check-ups are important because, with an eye exam,  you would know if your eye pressures are low, normal, or high. To schedule an appointment with an optometrist, contact TREETOP VISION EYE CENTER (TREVEC), the best eye clinic in Utako, Abuja.

TREVEC CARES!!!