How does intraocular pressure (IOP) relate to glaucoma, and what role does it play in the progression of the disease?
Intraocular pressure (IOP) is the fluid pressure inside the eye. In glaucoma, IOP is a significant risk factor and plays a crucial role in the progression of the disease.
Here’s how IOP relates to glaucoma:
1. Elevated IOP: High IOP can damage the optic nerve, leading to glaucoma. The increased pressure can cause mechanical stress, reducing blood flow and oxygen delivery to the optic nerve.
2. Optic nerve damage: Prolonged exposure to elevated IOP can lead to progressive damage to the optic nerve, resulting in vision loss.
3. Glaucoma progression: IOP is a major factor in glaucoma progression. Higher IOP levels are associated with faster disease progression.
4. Target IOP: Lowering IOP is a primary treatment goal in glaucoma management. The target IOP is individualized based on the patient’s condition and disease severity.