Intraocular Pressure (IOP) Test is a simple test used to measure the pressure inside the eye. Eye pressure is created by the fluid, known as the aqueous humor, that fills the front part of the eye. Raised eye pressure can be caused by the overproduction of aqueous humor or if the drainage system is blocked, causing the fluid to bulid up in the eye. Elevated eye pressure can cause damage to the optic nerve and lead to vision loss and blindness, making IOP measurement an essential part of routine eye exams.

Why is an Intraocular Pressure (IOP) Test Important?

IOP testing is an important part of routine eye exams because elevated eye pressure can lead to serious eye problems, including:

1. Glaucoma: This is a group of diseases that cause progressive damage to the optic nerve and lead to vision loss and blindness. IOP measurement is a key diagnostic tool for detecting glaucoma and monitoring its progression.
2. Trauma: Eye injuries, such as blunt force trauma or penetrating injuries, can increase eye pressure and cause damage to the eye. IOP testing is used to monitor eye pressure after an injury and ensure that it returns to normal levels.