Pressure behind eyes

[osacar52]

This is a problem with my mums eyesight.  Firstly apologies for using the wrong terms and titles but am "across the pond" and am sure you will know who and what I mean.

My mum not long ago had her eyes tested amd the optician (this is one term that is incorrect!) told her there was pressure behind her eyes and referred her to the hospital to see the opthalmologist as an emergency - they couldnt find any pressure.  However she returned today, after around 4 weeks and there appears to be high pressure again, and has said to back in 6 months for retest and they can assess from there.  I know one condition that shows increased pressure is glaucoma - but am sure there are many others.

For reference, my mum is 60 years old and is very near sighted - around -9 (i think, but could be a little more)

Can you offer any advice - especially on the pressure seeming to "disappear"

Thanks in advance

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS]

Pressure problems in the eye almost always refer to the possibility glaucoma causing damage. There are many different forms of glaucoma although only primary open angle glaucoma is the most common. The pressure in the eye is dynamic and like blood sugar levels and blood pressure changes from minute to minute to hour to hour.

You mother should keep in close contact with a MD physician that specializes in disease and surgery of the eyes (ophthalmologist).

JCH III MD   Eye MD

[osacar52]

Thanks Doctor, Your time is very much appreciated.