What is the purpose of using a tonometer?

The primary purpose of using a tonometer is to measure intraocular pressure (IOP), which is crucial for evaluating eye health, particularly in detecting glaucoma. Elevated IOP can indicate potential damage to the optic nerve and is a significant risk factor for glaucoma, a condition that can lead to vision loss if not managed effectively. The process involves applying a small amount of pressure to the surface of the eye and calculating the resistance, yielding a measurement of the fluid pressure within the eye.

Understanding intraocular pressure is a key component of comprehensive eye care, as it helps in early detection and management of ocular conditions. Regular measurement of IOP can provide essential information for optometrists and ophthalmologists in monitoring the progression of glaucoma and assessing the effectiveness of treatments.