What does an 8 and a 13 mean?I went to my opthomalogist for an eye pressure test due to my newly diagnosed open angle glaucoma. The doctor said that, because I've been using Xalatan drops like I should, I'm an "8," (down from a "13") which is so good that I don't have to see him for 4 months. What does this mean?
I know I should have asked him, but I'm so nervous about my diagnosis, so relieved that the drops are working, and so happy that I don't need more meds that I couldn't bring myself to ask.
I knew it was intraocular pressure, but is it like, "pressure per square inch" or just a random number?
I just read that it's Hg mm... Millimeters of mercury. Thanks!
Posted by Ron M
He was merely referring to"intra ocular pressure" as measured by the electric tonometer.
An 8 reading is low and means the eye pressure is not likely to lead to Glaucoma as a high pressure would.
You may or may not have been told that the eyeball is filled with a liquid called vitreous. This liquid does not remain the same day after day but is continually draining through channels in the iris and being replenished so that it remains clear and allows for good vision.
However, when the drainage channels become clogged with pigment and the flow inward to the eye keeps coming , a pressure build up which may rupture the delicate tissuesof the eye. This is called Glaucoma. Continued damage can cause less and less vision anf fianlly blindness in some cases. But it is silent and painless and that is the reason Glaucoma is called, "the sneak-thief of sight".
Pressures above 20 ring the alarm and treatment to enlarge the drainage area with medication or even surgery (iredectomy) may be needed.
Most cases do NOT reach this stage since early detection such as yours can result in preventive treatment and good vision for the rest of your life.
Posted by Rita B
Sounds like your eye pressure is lowering....excellent. Call the MD, and you will probably leave a voice mail with the nurse or PA. Either way if that happens give them permission to leave a message for you. You should be happy no more meds....I hope you are on the mend.
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