Can fever cause high eye pressure?
Jan 18, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Fever usually refers to an elevated body temperature, which may lead to increased intraocular pressure. If fever causes high eye pressure and symptoms such as eye swelling and pain, physical cooling methods like warm water sponge baths can be used, or antipyretic medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules or acetaminophen tablets may be taken as directed by a physician. Once the fever resolves, these symptoms typically subside.
Fever generally refers to an elevated body temperature, which may lead to increased intraocular pressure.
Fever means the body temperature has risen above the normal range and is often accompanied by symptoms such as chills and shivering. It can be caused by infectious factors such as bacteria, viruses, or mycoplasma. Under the influence of pyrogens, the body's temperature regulation center becomes dysfunctional, leading to increased heat production and reduced heat dissipation. During fever, changes in blood pressure commonly occur, along with systemic inflammatory responses and endocrine alterations. Inflammation may also develop in the eyes, all of which can contribute to elevated intraocular pressure.
Normal intraocular pressure falls within a range rather than being a fixed value, typically between 10 and 21 mmHg. If intraocular pressure increases within this range during fever, it is usually considered normal and unlikely to cause optic nerve atrophy or visual field defects. However, if intraocular pressure exceeds 21 mmHg, medical attention is necessary. Patients should visit a hospital for appropriate examinations to determine the underlying cause and receive active treatment under medical guidance.
If elevated intraocular pressure caused by fever leads to symptoms such as eye swelling and pain, physical cooling methods like tepid sponging can be used, or antipyretic medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules or acetaminophen tablets may be taken as directed by a physician. These symptoms typically resolve once the fever subsides. Elevated intraocular pressure during this period can be managed through daily self-care measures; if necessary, patients may also receive medication treatment under a doctor’s supervision.
