Postsurgical ocular hypertension
What is Postsurgical Ocular Hypertension?
Postsurgical ocular hypertension is an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) after a surgical procedure done on the eyes, such as cataract surgery. The intraocular pressure can go up as a result of the trauma, inflammation, and scarring from the procedure.
The pressure can cause discomfort or pain in the eyes and may lead to vision loss if left untreated. Symptoms of postsurgical ocular hypertension can include blurred vision, headaches, pain around the eyes, and a feeling of pressure in the eyes.
What Causes Postsurgical Ocular Hypertension?
The exact cause of postsurgical ocular hypertension is not known, but several factors may contribute to its development. These include:
- Scarring of the tissues around the eye
- Inflammation caused by the surgical procedure
- Trauma to the eyes during the procedure
- Prior ocular conditions present before the procedure
- Fluid buildup in the eye as a result of the surgery
How is Postsurgical Ocular Hypertension Diagnosed?
Doctors can diagnose postsurgical ocular hypertension by performing a comprehensive eye exam. This exam may include tests such as an intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement, a visual acuity test, a dilated fundus examination, and optical coherence tomography (OCT).
How is Postsurgical Ocular Hypertension Treated?
The treatment for postsurgical ocular hypertension depends on the underlying cause. Some of the treatment options include:
- Prescription eye drops or pills to reduce the inflammation or pressure in the eyes
- Surgery or laser treatment to reduce the fluid buildup in the eye
- Glaucoma surgery to reduce the IOP
- Nutritional supplements to help improve vision after surgery
In some cases, postsurgical ocular hypertension can be managed with lifestyle changes including reducing stress, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding activities that cause pressure on the eyes.
Conclusion
Postsurgical ocular hypertension is an increase in intraocular pressure after a surgical procedure on the eyes. The pressure can cause discomfort or pain in the eyes and may lead to vision loss if left untreated. Treatment options include prescription eye drops or pills, surgery or laser treatment, glaucoma surgery, and nutritional supplements. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as reducing stress and eating a healthy diet can also help manage postsurgical ocular hypertension.