Over the years, normal eye pressure has been defined as any pressure of 21mm or less, using the standard methods of checking pressures. However, there are many patients who have pressures that are higher than this, and yet, do not have any signs of damage to their optic nerves - they have normal nerves, normal visual fields, and normal nerve analysis testing. These patients probably have a higher resistance level in their optic nerves and do not undergo damage as easily as others. Glaucoma experts often suggest that these patients do not need to have their pressure treated until it gets into the upper 20's (28 - 29mm) or even 30mm. However, statistics have shown that the longer one's pressure is at this level, the greater the chance of ultimately causing damage to the fibers of the optic nerve.

Ocular hypertension is an increase in the pressure in your eyes that is above the range considered normal with no detectable changes in vision or damage to the structure of your eyes. Ocular hypertension has no noticeable signs or symptoms. The term is used to distinguish people with elevated pressure from those with glaucoma.

Ocular hypertension can occur in people of all ages, but it occurs more frequently in African Americans, those over age 40 and those with family histories of ocular hypertension and/or glaucoma. It is also more common in those who are very nearsighted or who have diabetes.

Not all people with ocular hypertension will develop glaucoma. However, there is an increased risk of glaucoma among those with ocular hypertension, so regular comprehensive optometric examinations are essential to your overall eye health.

There is no cure for ocular hypertension, however, careful monitoring and treatment, when indicated, can decrease the risk of damage to your eyes

Patients with Ocular Hypertension may be treated with medications the same way a patient with full glaucoma is treated so as to prevent them from developing any damage from the pressure.