Blog post by Natalie Bender
This test has caused anxiety for patients for many years.
The puff of air comes from an instrument called a tonometer. When the puff of air comes out it is taking a very important measurement called intraocular pressure (IOP) or the pressure inside the eye. IOP is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Normal pressure ranges from 8-21mm Hg. If your IOP is too high you could be at risk for glaucoma. Glaucoma usually happens when fluid builds up inside your eye, which in turn, increases the pressure in your eye. The extra pressure can cause damage to your optic nerve which can lead to vision loss.
Rest assured, at Eye Smile Vision we have something that can take your IOP measurement without the puff of air!!!! Our instrument is called an iCare tonometer. It can safely take the important measurement Dr. Stacey needs to make sure your eyes are healthy. Taking care of your eyes is important at every age, and frequent checks are a must!