November 2025 - Armadale Eye Clinic

Glaucoma and High Blood Pressure

Understanding Glaucoma and High Blood Pressure: What to Know

November 20, 2025/0 Comments/in Armadale Eye Blogs /by Armadale Eye Clinic Team

The relationship between glaucoma and high blood pressure is a subject of ongoing clinical interest. Both conditions involve the regulation of pressure and blood flow within sensitive body systems: the eyes and the cardiovascular network. Understanding how blood pressure influences the eyes can help you make informed decisions about monitoring and maintaining your vision health.

This article examines how glaucoma and high blood pressure interact, what risk factors may increase susceptibility, and how blood pressure management can contribute to maintaining healthy vision. It also provides information on diagnosis and treatment approaches.

Overview of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of conditions involving damage to the optic nerve, which is responsible for sending information from the eye to the brain.

When this nerve suffers damage, vision can gradually decrease over time. This process is often linked to increased pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP), but can also happen even when eye pressure appears normal.

Overview of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, happens when the force of blood pushing against the arteries’ walls remains elevated for a prolonged period. It can affect different organs, including the heart, kidneys, and eyes.

Long-term high blood pressure may alter blood flow to delicate tissues, including those in the eyes, influencing eye pressure and possibly contributing to optic nerve damage.

How Blood Pressure Affects Eye Pressure

Blood pressure and eye pressure share a complex relationship. Both affect the overall perfusion pressure of the optic nerve.

High blood pressure may lead to changes in the small blood vessels supplying the eye. In contrast, low blood pressure may reduce ocular perfusion pressure, affecting the optic nerve’s oxygen and nutrient supply.

The Role of the Optic Nerve in Eyesight

The optic nerve consists of nerve fibres. These fibres carry signals from the retina to the brain, where images are processed. Maintaining consistent blood flow and oxygen delivery to this nerve is crucial for preserving vision.

How Pressure Changes Can Lead to Optic Nerve Damage

When intraocular pressure becomes elevated, it can compress the optic nerve fibres and disrupt blood flow, which may lead to structural damage over time. Even in cases of normal tension glaucoma, where eye pressure is not raised, the optic nerve may still be affected if blood pressure is too low to maintain sufficient perfusion.

Intraocular Pressure and Its Importance

Normal eye pressure mostly ranges between 10 and 21 mmHg, but this can vary from person to person. Maintaining balanced pressure inside the eye is essential for proper function and structural stability.

What Happens When Eye Pressure Rises

Raised or elevated eye pressure, known as ocular hypertension, can occur when too much fluid builds up in the eye.

This fluid, called aqueous humour, is produced continuously and drains through a small system in the anterior chamber. If the drainage system does not function properly, pressure may increase, potentially threatening the optic nerve.

Types of Glaucoma and Their Relationship With Blood Pressure

Glaucoma can develop in several forms, each influenced by blood pressure and eye pressure regulation.

Primary Open Angle Glaucoma

This is one form of glaucoma that develops slowly when the eye’s drainage system becomes less efficient. Individuals with high intraocular pressure and elevated blood pressure may have a higher risk of having this condition.

Normal Tension Glaucoma

Normal tension glaucoma occurs when optic nerve damage develops despite eye pressure being within the normal range. In many cases, low blood pressure or low ocular perfusion pressure may contribute to reduced blood flow to the optic nerve.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma

This type may occur when the drainage angle between the iris and cornea becomes blocked, potentially causing a rapid rise in eye pressure. Sudden pressure changes can disrupt blood flow and place stress on the optic nerve, requiring prompt assessment and management.

The Role of Ocular Perfusion Pressure

Ocular perfusion pressure represents the difference between blood pressure and intraocular pressure. Adequate perfusion pressure ensures that oxygen and nutrients reach the optic nerve and surrounding tissues effectively.

Low Ocular Perfusion Pressure and Vision Health

When blood pressure is too low or intraocular pressure is too high, ocular perfusion pressure drops. Over time, this can compromise optic nerve function, especially in glaucoma patients or those with vascular health issues.

Understanding Perfusion Pressure in Glaucoma Patients

Both high blood pressure and low blood pressure can influence perfusion pressure. Stable systemic blood pressure supports consistent ocular perfusion, which is vital for individuals with glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Blood Pressure Levels and Eye Health

High BP can affect the delicate blood vessels that nourish the eye. Over time, this may alter the balance of fluid production and drainage, influencing eye pressure.

Low blood pressure might result in insufficient blood flow to the optic nerve, especially during sleep. This condition may contribute to normal tension glaucoma.

Maintaining Balanced Blood Pressure Control

Balanced blood pressure control supports both general and eye health. Managing systemic pressure may help with the perfusion to the optic nerve and lower the likelihood of developing pressure-related eye problems.

Risk Factors for Glaucoma

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing glaucoma. Understanding these helps support early detection and appropriate management strategies.

Family History of Glaucoma

A family history of glaucoma may increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Genetic factors can influence both eye structure and how the eye regulates fluid and pressure.

Extreme Short-Sightedness

Individuals with extreme short-sightedness, or myopia, may have structural eye changes that increase susceptibility to raised eye pressure.

Age and Other Medical Conditions

The risk of glaucoma increases with age. Other medical conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, may further affect blood vessel health and eye pressure.

Heart Disease and Blood Vessel Health

Since glaucoma involves both pressure and blood flow, cardiovascular health plays a role. Proper blood vessel function may be associated with normal perfusion pressure and optic nerve health.

Recognising the Signs of Glaucoma

Glaucoma often progresses gradually, making early detection through regular eye exams essential.

While symptoms may not always be obvious, understanding the potential warning signs can help you stay proactive about your eye health.

Early Changes in Side Vision

Glaucoma often affects peripheral or side vision first. This gradual loss can go unnoticed until it becomes more advanced.

Subtle Symptoms That May Be Overlooked

Most glaucoma patients do not experience noticeable pain or discomfort. Regular eye exams help detect small changes in vision or pressure early.

Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Comprehensive eye exams allow an eye doctor to monitor intraocular pressure, optic nerve condition, and other risk factors. Early detection plays a key role in maintaining healthy vision.

Managing Glaucoma and High Blood Pressure

Blood flow to the optic nerve can be influenced by both glaucoma and high blood pressure. Management often involves addressing these conditions through medical assessment and monitoring to maintain stable eye pressure and consistent ocular perfusion.

Blood Pressure Control Strategies

Maintaining healthy blood pressure levels supports consistent ocular perfusion. Working with healthcare professionals helps identify appropriate management approaches.

Glaucoma Treatment Options

Glaucoma treatment focuses on lowering intraocular pressure to protect the optic nerve. Options include prescription eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery, depending on individual circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ocular hypertension?

Ocular hypertension refers to consistently high intraocular pressure without visible damage to the optic nerve. If left untreated, this condition may progress to glaucoma. Regular monitoring by an eye doctor helps detect early signs of change in optic nerve health.

What is ocular perfusion pressure?

Ocular perfusion pressure is the balance between blood pressure and intraocular pressure. It represents how much blood reaches the optic nerve, ensuring oxygen and nutrients are delivered effectively.

How often should I have an eye exam if I have high BP?

People with high blood pressure are encouraged to have regular eye exams, typically every one to two years, or as recommended by their eye doctor.

Conclusion

Glaucoma and high blood pressure are interconnected conditions that share important physiological pathways involving blood flow and pressure regulation. Understanding their relationship helps in maintaining both systemic and ocular health.

Regular eye exams, consistent blood pressure monitoring, and professional guidance from qualified eye doctors should help identify and manage risk factors. Balanced care supports long-term eye health and visual function.

If you have concerns about your eye health or blood pressure, consider scheduling a comprehensive eye exam with Armadale Eye Clinic at (03) 9070 5753.

A professional assessment can help monitor intraocular pressure, evaluate the optic nerve, and discuss management options based on your individual needs.

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

References

Healthdirect Australia. (2024, May). Glaucoma. Healthdirect. Retrieved October 13, 2025, from https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/glaucoma

Moore, W. (2024, December 31). What Is Open-Angle Glaucoma? WebMD. Retrieved October 13, 2025, from https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-open-angle-glaucoma

P Lin, A. (2025, March 27). Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma (AACG). Medscape. Retrieved October 13, 2025, from https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1206956-overview

Tee-Melegrito, R. A. (2023, May 18). What does glaucoma vision look like? Medical News Today. Retrieved October 13, 2025, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-does-glaucoma-vision-look-like

Age for Laser Eye Surgery

Understanding the Age for Laser Eye Surgery: What to Know

November 6, 2025/0 Comments/in Laser Eye Surgery /by Armadale Eye Clinic Team

One frequently discussed factor when considering laser eye surgery is age. The age for laser eye surgery can influence eligibility, recovery, and long-term results. Understanding how age affects the eyes, prescription stability, and overall eye health helps you make an informed decision.

This article provides an overview of how age interacts with other factors when considering laser eye surgery.

It aims to help patients understand what to expect, what criteria are considered, and how different age ranges relate to eye development and long-term vision outcomes.

The Purpose of Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery is a medical surgery designed to correct refractive errors by adjusting the shape of the cornea. This can help reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses and improve clarity of vision. Some forms of laser vision correction include LASIK eye surgery, SMILE®, PRK, and PRESBYOND® Laser Blended Vision.

Why Age Matters in Eye Surgery

Age influences the eye’s ability to heal, maintain a stable vision prescription, and adapt to changes in focus. The age for laser eye surgery is important because the eyes continue to develop and stabilise over time, and certain age-related changes can affect eligibility.

Minimum Age for Laser Eye Surgery

It is recommended that patients wait until their eyes have stopped changing. This usually occurs when a person has had a stable prescription for at least a year. The minimum age for laser eye surgery often coincides with when the vision prescription remains consistent over several eye examinations.

This stability is key because performing laser eye surgery before your prescription has stabilised may result in the need for future adjustments. Eye specialists assess your past year of vision data to determine consistency.

When Younger Eyes May Not Yet Be Ready

Teenagers and young adults often experience ongoing changes in their vision prescription. For this reason, they may not be suitable for undergoing laser eye surgery until the eyes have stabilised. The minimum age requirement protects long-term eye health and ensures reliable outcomes.

Evaluating Maturity and Responsibility

Age also relates to decision-making maturity. Understanding the potential risks, realistic expectations, and recovery process requires careful thought. Surgeons ensure that younger candidates demonstrate the responsibility needed to follow post-surgery care guidelines.

Typical Age Range for Laser Eye Surgery

While there is no fixed age limit, people may seek laser eye treatments during adulthood when prescriptions are steady. The age for laser eye treatment depends on individual eye health, medical history, and readiness for a medical procedure.

Assessing Candidacy Beyond Age

Being a potential candidate for laser eye surgery involves more than meeting the minimum age. Your corneal thickness, eye health, and medical history play major roles in eligibility. A comprehensive assessment ensures that every factor is carefully considered.

The Role of Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes can affect vision and the eye’s ability to stabilise. For instance, pregnancy or certain medications may temporarily alter vision prescription. In such cases, surgeons often recommend waiting until the eyes return to a consistent state before laser vision correction.

Maintaining Healthy Eyes Across Different Ages

No matter the age group, keeping healthy eyes is vital. Regular check-ups with an eye doctor help monitor vision changes, detect eye diseases, and assess whether you remain a good candidate for laser eye surgery or other vision correction procedures.

Understanding Corrective Surgery Options

Corrective surgery for vision correction includes several laser eye surgery options, each designed to address specific visual needs and eye characteristics. Common procedures include LASIK surgery, PRK, SMILE, and PRESBYOND for age-related near vision concerns.

Each procedure reshapes the corneal surface or underlying corneal tissue to correct refractive issues such as short-sightedness, long-sightedness, or astigmatism. The choice among these depends on factors such as corneal thickness, stability of the vision prescription, and the condition of the underlying tissue.

For instance, LASIK surgery involves creating a flap on the cornea using a femtosecond laser, then reshaping the inner layers to improve the eye’s focusing ability.

PRK, on the other hand, removes the outermost corneal layer without creating a flap, making it an option for individuals with thin corneas.

SMILE uses a small incision to remove a lenticule of tissue, maintaining greater structural integrity of the cornea.

For those experiencing changes in near vision due to ageing, PRESBYOND combines laser reshaping with a profile that extends the eye’s depth of focus, helping to reduce reliance on reading glasses.

Post-Procedure Adjustments

After surgery, your eyes undergo a natural adaptation period as they heal and stabilise. This adjustment phase can vary between individuals depending on factors such as age, corneal thickness, and the type of laser eye surgery performed.

During the first few weeks, you should notice gradual improvements in vision clarity as the corneal tissue settles into its new shape. Some temporary visual fluctuations, such as mild blurry vision or sensitivity to light, can occur as part of the healing response.

Your eye doctor will schedule several follow-up appointments to assess the stability of your vision prescription and ensure your eye health remains consistent. These reviews help identify whether both eyes are healing evenly and whether any adjustments to your treatment plan or visual care routine are needed.

Protective measures, such as avoiding eye rubbing, using prescribed eye drops, and wearing protective eyewear during recovery, support healing and help maintain corneal integrity.

Regular check-ins allow your eye specialist to confirm that your vision continues to stabilise as expected and that your eyes are adapting appropriately to the corneal changes introduced during the surgery.

Understanding Potential Risks

As with any medical procedure, laser eye surgery involves certain potential risks that should be carefully considered.

Some potential risks and considerations may include:

Temporary Discomfort: Mild irritation, a sensation of dryness, or light sensitivity can occur as the eyes heal.
Fluctuating Vision: Some individuals may notice brief periods of blurry vision or changes in clarity during the recovery process.
Dry Eyes: A temporary reduction in tear production may lead to dryness, which may improve with prescribed eye drops and time.
Night Vision Changes: Light sensitivity or halos around lights may occur in some cases during early recovery.
Corneal Thickness Concerns: Those with thin corneas or irregular underlying corneal tissue may be at higher risk of structural irregularities.
Infection or Inflammation: Any surgery carries a risk of infection, which may be managed with close post-procedure monitoring.
Residual Refractive Error: Some people may still require glasses or contact lenses for certain tasks, especially if the vision prescription changes later in life.

Because each person’s eyes differ, eye doctors perform an assessment before recommending laser surgery. This includes evaluating corneal thickness, ocular health, and overall health.

When to Reassess Vision After Surgery

Over the years, it’s normal to reassess your vision. Changes in natural lens flexibility or ocular health may call for additional adjustments. Your surgeon will guide you on whether other vision correction procedures are recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can older adults get laser eye surgery?

Yes, older adults can have laser eye surgery, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. However, if age-related lens changes or cataracts are present, lens-based surgery or refractive lens exchange may be recommended instead.

What if my prescription still changes?

Waiting is recommended if your vision prescription has changed within the past year. Once stable vision has been confirmed, laser eye surgery is typically performed.

How do I prepare for the procedure?

Patients are usually advised to stop wearing contact lenses for a set period before surgery, avoid using makeup or creams near the eyes on the day of the procedure, and arrange transport home after the procedure.

Conclusion

Age plays a role in determining eligibility for laser eye surgery. The age depends on having stable vision, maintaining healthy eyes, and whether the underlying tissue can support the procedure.

From early adulthood to later years, getting laser eye surgery involves assessing eye health, medical history, and realistic expectations. Consulting a qualified eye doctor should help you receive professional advice tailored to your circumstances.

Whether you’re exploring laser eye treatment for the first time or considering it later in life, understanding how age influences outcomes helps you choose your vision correction.

For more information about laser eye surgery in Melbourne or to determine if you are a potential candidate, contact Armadale Eye Clinic at (03) 9070 5753 to arrange a professional assessment.

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

References:

Caceres, V. (2025, June 30). How to Tell If Laser Eye Surgery Is Right for You. Verywell Health. Retrieved October 13, 2025, from https://www.verywellhealth.com/laser-eye-surgery-8678350

Felman, A. (2024, August 12). What To Know About Laser Blended Vision. Medical News Today. Retrieved October 13, 2025, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/blended-vision-problems

Silver, N. (2025, April 7). What Causes Dry Eyes After LASIK Surgery, and How to Treat Them. Healthline. Retrieved October 13, 2025, from https://www.healthline.com/health/dry-eye/dry-eyes-after-lasik