Intraocular pressure (IOP) is the fluid pressure inside the eye. It is an important measurement because it can help to diagnose and monitor eye conditions such as glaucoma. Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. High IOP is a major risk factor for glaucoma, so it is important to have your IOP checked regularly if you are at risk for the condition.
There are a few different ways to check IOP. The most common method is called tonometry. Tonometry involves using a device called a tonometer to measure the pressure inside the eye. Tonometers can be either handheld or automated. Handheld tonometers are used by eye doctors to measure IOP during a routine eye exam. Automated tonometers are often used in public settings, such as pharmacies and vision centers, to screen for high IOP.