Can I be reassured if the intraocular pressure is normal? 'Normal-tension glaucoma'

Glaucoma is a disease in which the optic nerve is damaged, leading to a narrowing of the visual field.

In other words, when the internal pressure that maintains the shape of the eyeball, namely intraocular pressure, rises, it causes a disturbance in the blood flow to the optic nerve.

The optic nerve is compressed, leading to visual field impairment.

Initially, there is no pain, making it difficult to notice, and generally the peripheral vision gradually narrows, eventually leading to loss of vision.

The reason why early detection of normal-tension glaucoma is difficult is because there are no obvious subjective symptoms and the visual field gradually narrows over time.

Furthermore, even after realizing that the field of vision has narrowed without affecting eyesight, the vision does not deteriorate.

Therefore, even if the intraocular pressure is within the normal range in the health checkup results, you should not be complacent.

Early detection of glaucoma is more important than anything else.

Therefore, it is necessary to check for optic nerve abnormalities and nerve fiber layer defects through visual field testing and fundus examination.

The fact that glaucoma can develop even when intraocular pressure is normal... I find it very frightening.