Overview
Intraocular Pressure (IOP) Assessment, also known as tonometry, measures the fluid pressure inside your eyes. This measurement is a critical component of glaucoma screening, as elevated eye pressure is a major risk factor for this sight-threatening condition that damages the optic nerve.
Your eye constantly produces a fluid called aqueous humor that nourishes the eye and maintains its shape. This fluid drains through a mesh-like channel. When production and drainage are balanced, eye pressure remains normal. When drainage is impaired, pressure can build up and potentially damage the optic nerve.
While elevated IOP is a significant risk factor for glaucoma, it's important to understand that some people develop glaucoma with normal pressure (normal-tension glaucoma), while others have elevated pressure without developing glaucoma (ocular hypertension). IOP assessment is one piece of a comprehensive glaucoma evaluation.
What's Included
Comprehensive features and services included in this examination.
Who Should Consider This Service?
This service is ideal for the following individuals.
Age Group
- Adults over 40 years
- Seniors (higher risk group)
- Young adults with risk factors
- All ages with family history
Symptom-Based
- Eye pain or pressure sensation
- Halos around lights
- Gradual peripheral vision loss
- Headaches with eye symptoms
Medical-Based
- Family history of glaucoma
- Previous elevated IOP readings
- Diabetes patients
- High myopia (nearsightedness)
Lifestyle-Based
- Annual eye exam participants
- Health-conscious individuals
- Those on steroid medications
- Contact lens wearers
What to Expect
A step-by-step guide to your appointment experience.
Preparation
You'll be seated comfortably at the testing instrument. For non-contact tonometry, no preparation is needed. For applanation tonometry, anesthetic drops are applied.
Non-Contact Measurement
A gentle puff of air is directed at your eye while you look at a target light. The instrument measures how your cornea responds to determine pressure.
Applanation Tonometry (if needed)
For more precise measurement, a small probe gently touches your numbed cornea. This is the gold-standard method and is completely painless.
Multiple Readings
Several measurements are taken and averaged for accuracy. Both eyes are tested, as pressure can differ between eyes.
Corneal Thickness Consideration
If needed, corneal thickness is measured, as this affects IOP readings. Thicker corneas can give falsely high readings and vice versa.
Results Discussion
The doctor explains your IOP readings, what they mean for your eye health, and any recommended follow-up or treatment.
Technology & Equipment
State-of-the-art equipment used for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Non-Contact Tonometer (NCT)
Uses a precisely calibrated air puff to measure IOP without touching the eye—quick, comfortable, and requires no anesthetic drops.
Goldmann Applanation Tonometer
The gold-standard for IOP measurement, providing highly accurate readings by measuring the force needed to flatten a small area of cornea.
Pachymeter
Measures corneal thickness to adjust IOP readings, as corneal thickness affects measurement accuracy.
iCare Tonometer
A portable, rebound tonometer that measures IOP with a tiny probe—no air puff or drops needed, ideal for children and sensitive patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this service answered.
Why Choose Nakpil Eye Clinic?
Experienced Team
15+ years of expertise in eye care
Advanced Technology
State-of-the-art diagnostic equipment
Personalized Care
Tailored treatment plans for each patient
Comprehensive Services
Full range of eye care solutions