Are intraocular pressures of 23–25 mmHg normal?

Aug 17, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Cui Xin

Introduction

In general, the intraocular pressure (IOP) in healthy individuals does not exceed 21 mmHg; therefore, an IOP of 23–25 mmHg is only slightly elevated. However, there is no need for excessive concern, as elevated IOP can commonly result from factors such as nervous tension, anxiety, or excessive eye strain. If IOP becomes excessively high, the aqueous humor circulation is most significantly affected; conversely, reduced aqueous humor production may also be caused by certain underlying conditions.

In healthy individuals, intraocular pressure (IOP) remains stable within a certain range to maintain the normal shape of the eyeball and ensure optimal refractive conditions at the interfaces of ocular refractive media. Intraocular pressure refers to the uniform pressure exerted by the intraocular contents on the scleral wall. So, is an IOP of 23–25 mmHg considered normal? Below, we address this question.

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Is an IOP of 23–25 mmHg Normal?

Generally, normal IOP in healthy adults does not exceed 21 mmHg; therefore, an IOP of 23–25 mmHg is slightly elevated. However, there is no need for excessive concern, as transient IOP elevation can commonly result from nervous tension, anxiety, or ocular fatigue due to overuse of the eyes. Excessively high IOP primarily disrupts aqueous humor circulation. Conversely, reduced aqueous humor production—due to various causes—can lead to decreased IOP. Currently, tonometry is the most widely used method for measuring IOP. Patients with elevated IOP should avoid visual strain, ensure adequate eye rest, and thereby reduce the likelihood of IOP elevation. Additionally, consuming foods rich in vitamins may help improve ocular health.

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Knowledge Extension: What Causes Elevated Intraocular Pressure?

1. Visual Fatigue

Prolonged daily use of electronic devices—such as smartphones, tablets, and computers—for several hours can lead to visual fatigue. Chronic exposure to electronic screen radiation contributes to ocular fatigue and may elevate IOP, potentially affecting visual acuity.

2. Emotional Factors

When experiencing stress or frustration, individuals may unconsciously hold their breath or stare intensely—both of which activate the sympathetic nervous system and raise IOP. Similarly, cold stimulation of the eyes can also trigger sympathetic activation, resulting in rapid IOP elevation. Furthermore, frequent consumption of spicy or highly stimulating foods may contribute to increased IOP.

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3. Pathological Causes

For example, glaucoma requires comprehensive evaluation—including assessment of visual field defects and thinning of the retinal nerve fiber layer—to establish diagnosis. By contrast, ocular hypertension is characterized by elevated IOP without visual field loss or optic nerve damage; such individuals require only regular follow-up examinations and do not need specific treatment. Additionally, certain systemic diseases—such as diabetes—may also cause secondary IOP elevation.

The above outlines whether an IOP of 23–25 mmHg falls within the normal range. We hope this information proves helpful to you.

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What can be done to relieve high eye pressure?

Increased intraocular pressure is considered to be associated with improper eye use, ocular trauma, hypertension, and other factors. It can be alleviated under a doctor's guidance through appropriate rest, cold compresses, and medication. Specifically: prolonged eye use, especially extended periods of staring at screens such as computers or smartphones, can lead to eye muscle fatigue. This fatigue reduces the eye's ability to adjust focus, thereby causing elevated intraocular pressure.

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Is an eye pressure of 9 mmHg normal?

An intraocular pressure (IOP) of 9 mmHg is generally considered abnormal. The specific analysis is as follows: IOP typically refers to the pressure inside the eye, which is formed by the eyeball and its internal contents. During vision function, the internal tissues are transparent and have refractive indices that together form the eye's optical system. Generally, the normal range for intraocular pressure is 10 mmHg to 21 mmHg.

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If the intraocular pressure in glaucoma has normalized, is further treatment still necessary?

After treatment, if the intraocular pressure has returned to normal and the visual field defect is stabilized, further treatment is usually not required. However, regular follow-up examinations are still recommended to monitor any changes in the condition. If, after treatment, the intraocular pressure is normal but visual field defects persist and the retinal nerve fiber layer continues to thin, the condition is considered unstable and ongoing treatment is generally necessary.