NTG education notes that even if current eye pressures are normal, treatment aims to do what?

NTG education notes that even if current eye pressures are normal, treatment aims to do what?

• A. Lower the eye pressure
• B. Raise the eye pressure
• C. Change eye color
• D. Increase tear production

Answer: (A)

Normal tension glaucoma involves optic nerve damage even when intraocular pressure is within the normal range. Because the optic nerve can be damaged at these pressures, treatment focuses on lowering the intraocular pressure to a safer target for the individual, aiming to reduce the risk of progression. The goal is a meaningful reduction from the patient’s baseline pressure, using medications, laser therapy, or surgery as needed. Raising the pressure, changing eye color, or increasing tear production do not address the glaucomatous damage.

Normal tension glaucoma involves optic nerve damage even when intraocular pressure is within the normal range. Because the optic nerve can be damaged at these pressures, treatment focuses on lowering the intraocular pressure to a safer target for the individual, aiming to reduce the risk of progression. The goal is a meaningful reduction from the patient’s baseline pressure, using medications, laser therapy, or surgery as needed. Raising the pressure, changing eye color, or increasing tear production do not address the glaucomatous damage.