Human eyes require a certain level of eye pressure to keep in shape and function optimally. This pressure is as a result of the formation of and circulation of fluid (aqueous humour) inside the eye, this should not be confused with tear which lies on the surface (outside) of the eye.

The normal intraocular pressure range is usually between 10 to 21 mm of Mercury. 

Vast majority of people will have a pressure somewhere in the middle of this range, near 16-17mm Mercury. 

It needs to be emphasized that what is normal pressure in one person may not be normal for another person. In some individuals the even the so called 'normal pressure' may be too high for their particular eye and such individuals may be at risk of a type of glaucoma where the pressure in the eye lies in the 'normal range'. This type of glaucoma is called " Normal Tension or Normal Pressure Glaucoma".

Intraocular pressure (IOP=Pressure in eye) is the most important and most consistent risk factor for Glaucoma. The risk of glaucoma increases with the level of eye pressure as follows:

 

Intraocular pressure (IOP=Eye pressure) is not only a risk factor for glaucoma but also a prognostic factor; higher eye pressure is associated with faster progression of glaucoma. It is now known that higher pressure in the eye may be associated with increased risk of obstruction of the retinal blood vessels at the back of the eye.

For private patients & referrals

Mr Akash Raj 

Consultant Ophthalmologist, Glaucoma specialist & Cataract surgeon

Stourside Hospital (part of West midland Hospital)

60 Bradley Road

Stourbridge

DY8 1UX

01384 505 183

(Alternate:

Monday Evenings)

Appointments:

01384 912966

Private Secretary: Tara Ralph : 01384 632 636 

Mr Akash Raj

Consultant Ophthalmologist, Glaucoma & Cataract specialist.

 

For NHS Referrals through GP/Opticians

Mr Akash Raj

Consultant Ophthalmologist (Glaucoma Lead)

Russells Hall Hospital

Pensnett Road

Dudley

West Midlands

DY1 2HQ

Phone: 01384456111

Extn. 5815 (NHS Secretary: Lyn Eaton)