When working with Tonometry, a quick test that measures the pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure). Also known as eye pressure test, it helps eye doctors decide if you might develop glaucoma or need treatment. Because the pressure reading is a direct clue about the health of your optic nerve, tonometry is a cornerstone of eye exams.
One of the first things you’ll hear is Intraocular Pressure, the fluid pressure measured during a tonometry exam. High numbers often point to glaucoma, a disease that can damage your vision if left unchecked. Another crucial term is Glaucoma, a progressive eye condition that damages the optic nerve, usually linked to elevated intraocular pressure. Doctors in Ophthalmology, the medical specialty focused on eye health and vision care rely on tonometry to catch glaucoma early and decide on treatments like eye drops or laser therapy. The test also ties into Pachymetry, a measurement of corneal thickness that helps adjust tonometry readings for greater accuracy. Knowing your corneal thickness is essential because a thicker cornea can give a falsely high pressure reading, while a thin cornea may mask a problem.
There are several ways to perform tonometry, each with its own pros and cons. Applanation tonometry flattens a tiny spot on the cornea and is considered the gold standard for accuracy. Non‑contact (air‑puff) tonometry uses a quick burst of air, so no contact is needed—great for quick screenings. Rebound tonometry bounces a tiny probe off the eye; it’s portable and works well for kids. Dynamic contour tonometry matches the eye’s shape to avoid corneal distortion. All these methods require proper calibration, a point emphasized by ophthalmology guidelines: tonometry results are only trustworthy when the device is correctly set up and the patient’s eye is steady.
Why does all this matter for you? If you’re at risk for glaucoma—because of family history, age, or other eye conditions—regular tonometry checks can catch pressure spikes before they cause permanent damage. Combined with visual field testing and optic nerve imaging, tonometry builds a full picture of eye health. Even people with normal pressure can develop glaucoma, so many eye doctors use tonometry alongside pachymetry to refine risk assessments. The more data you have, the better the treatment plan, whether that means medication, laser, or monitoring.
Below you’ll find a collection of articles that dive deeper into specific aspects of tonometry, from how different devices work to tips for interpreting results. Whether you’re a patient curious about your eye exam or a professional looking for the latest device comparisons, the posts ahead cover practical insights, safety tips, and the science behind eye pressure measurement.
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