Acetazolamide for Glaucoma: How It Works, Dosing, and Side Effects
Thinking about acetazolamide for glaucoma? Learn how it lowers eye pressure, when doctors use it, dosing, side effects, and what to expect in the UK.
Intraocular Pressure (IOP) – What It Is and Why It Matters
Intraocular pressure, or IOP, is the force of fluid inside your eye. Think of it like the air pressure in a tire – too low or too high can cause problems. Normal IOP sits between 10 and 21 mmHg. When it drifts above that range, the optic nerve can get damaged, raising the risk of glaucoma.
What Affects Intraocular Pressure?
Several things can push your IOP up or down. Age matters – pressure often rises as you get older. Family history of glaucoma is a big red flag. Certain medicines, especially steroids, can increase fluid production inside the eye. Even the shape of your eye and how well fluid drains play a role.
Blood pressure meds like nifedipine (Adalat) mainly affect systemic pressure, but they can indirectly influence eye pressure by changing overall circulation. Eye‑drop medications designed for glaucoma work directly on the drainage system to lower IOP.
Ways to Keep IOP in Check
First, get your pressure checked regularly. An eye doctor uses a tonometer – it’s quick and painless. If you have risk factors, ask for a check at least once a year.
Simple lifestyle tweaks help too. Exercise improves blood flow and can lower IOP a bit. Aim for moderate activity like brisk walking for 30 minutes most days. Keep a healthy weight; obesity is linked to higher eye pressure.
Watch your caffeine intake. Too much coffee or energy drinks can give a short‑term pressure spike. Try to limit caffeine to one or two cups a day.
If you need medication, stick to the schedule. Most eye drops require two or three doses daily. Missing doses lets pressure creep up, undoing the work you and your doctor have done.
Protect your eyes from injury. A hard knock can damage the drainage system and raise IOP suddenly. Wear safety glasses when doing risky activities.
Finally, keep an eye on your overall health. Conditions like diabetes and hypertension can affect eye pressure. Managing those illnesses with your doctor’s help supports healthy IOP as well.
Bottom line: knowing your intraocular pressure, checking it often, and making a few everyday adjustments can keep your eyes safe and your vision clear. If you notice blurry spots, halos around lights, or eye pain, book an appointment right away – early action makes a big difference.