Ocular hypertension
Ocular Hypertension
Ocular hypertension (/ɒk.jʊ.lər haɪ.pɚ.tɛn.ʃən/), often abbreviated as OHT, is a condition characterized by an increase in pressure in the eyes that is above the range considered normal. It is a significant risk factor for the development of glaucoma, but does not necessarily lead to it.
Etymology
The term "ocular hypertension" is derived from the Latin word "oculus" meaning "eye", and the Greek word "hyper" meaning "over" or "above", and "tension" from the Latin "tensio" meaning "pressure". Thus, it refers to an above-normal pressure in the eye.
Symptoms
Ocular hypertension does not typically present with any noticeable symptoms. Most individuals with the condition are diagnosed during routine eye examinations. However, regular monitoring is essential as ocular hypertension can lead to glaucoma if left untreated.
Causes
The exact cause of ocular hypertension is not known. However, it is believed to be due to a decrease in the eye's ability to drain aqueous humor, or an increase in its production. Other risk factors include age, family history of ocular hypertension or glaucoma, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
Treatment
Treatment for ocular hypertension is aimed at reducing the pressure in the eye to prevent the development of glaucoma. This can be achieved through the use of eye drops, oral medications, or in some cases, surgery. Regular monitoring by an ophthalmologist is also crucial.
Related Terms
- Glaucoma: A group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to abnormally high pressure in the eye.
- Aqueous Humor: The clear fluid filling the space in the front of the eyeball between the lens and the cornea.
- Ophthalmologist: A specialist in medical and surgical eye problems.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ocular hypertension
- Wikipedia's article - Ocular hypertension
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski