News You Can Use: Keep an Eye on Your Eye Pressure

Yi Hua, a biomedical engineering professor at the University of Mississippi, warns that ocular hypertension can reduce blood flow to the back of the eye – particularly at the optic nerve head – limiting oxygen delivery to nerve fibers. This can lead to glaucoma, the world's leading cause of irreversible blindness.

"Mississippi has the highest glaucoma prevalence rate in the nation," said Hua, an assistant professor in the School of Engineering. "That makes this a serious regional public health concern."

The eyes continuously produce a clear fluid called aqueous humor, which delivers nutrients to the cornea and lens. If the eye produces too much of this fluid – or if it doesn't drain properly – the pressure in the eye can rise. Over time, elevated eye pressure can compress blood vessels and damage delicate nerve fibers in the optic nerve.

While not everyone with high eye pressure will develop glaucoma, certain populations are at greater risk. Studies show that Black and Latino individuals are more likely to be affected. Nationwide, glaucoma affects more than 4.2 million people. In Mississippi, nearly 2% of the population lives with the condition.

Early detection is key, Hua said. Elevated eye pressure can be treated, but only if it is discovered in time.

"Once you notice vision problems, the optic nerve has likely already sustained significant damage, and treatment options become limited," he said. "If we can detect elevated eye pressure earlier, we can intervene and prevent permanent vision loss.

"This can save people's sight – and their quality of life."

Because glaucoma typically begins by affecting peripheral vision, many people don't realize they have it until the disease is well advanced. In fact, more than half those living with glaucoma are unaware they have it.

That is why routine eye exams are so important, Hua said.

"If a doctor detects high eye pressure, it's critical to act quickly to reduce it and protect vision," he said.

Hua's interest in raising awareness is not just academic – it's personal.

"Earlier this year, I went in for a check-up, and they detected ocular hypertension," he said. "Knowing the risks, I began using daily eye drops to manage it. I want to help others understand the importance of eye pressure so they can get treatment early, too."

Top: Routine eye exams are a critical step in preventing irreversible vision loss from glaucoma. Doctors can detect elevated pressure within the eye and prescribe medication to lower it, preventing significant nerve damage and vision loss. Adobe Stock photo