How to Track Eye Pressure at Home

How to Track Eye Pressure at Home

Managing glaucoma takes more than checkups.

Tracking eye pressure at home gives you more control.
It helps you see patterns.
It helps your doctor adjust your treatment.

Can you do it on your own?

Yes—with the right tools and habits.

Why Eye Pressure Matters

Eye pressure (intraocular pressure or IOP) affects your optic nerve.
Too much pressure can damage it.
That’s how glaucoma progresses.

You won’t feel pressure rising.
You won’t notice damage right away.
That’s why regular monitoring matters.

What Is a Normal Eye Pressure?

Typical range: 10 to 21 mmHg

But everyone’s target is different.
Some people need lower pressure to prevent nerve damage.

Your doctor will give you a personal target range.

Your job is to track whether you’re within it.

Tools You Can Use at Home

1. Rebound Tonometers

• Example: iCare HOME

• Handheld device

• Quick readings without eye drops

• FDA-cleared for home use

You gently touch the device to the eye.
It bounces a tiny probe off the surface to measure pressure.

2. Wearable Sensors

• Example: Triggerfish contact lens sensor

• Worn like a soft contact lens

• Measures pressure changes over 24 hours

• Data sent to your doctor for review

These are less common and used mostly in research or special cases.

3. Smartphone-Based Devices

• Some apps pair with a tonometer

• Always verify clinical approval before use

Talk with your doctor before choosing a device.
They’ll guide you based on your needs.

How to Take Readings Correctly

Follow these steps:

• Wash your hands

• Sit comfortably and stay relaxed

• Follow device instructions closely

• Take readings at the same time each day

• Record each result

If you’re unsure how to position the device, ask your doctor for a demo.

How Often Should You Measure?

Your doctor will decide based on your case.

In general:

• Once or twice daily if pressure is unstable

• Weekly if your condition is stable

• Extra readings during symptoms or changes in vision

Consistency matters more than quantity.

What to Track Alongside Pressure

Eye pressure isn’t the whole story.

Also note:

• Any changes in vision

• Headaches or eye pain

• Missed medications

• Stress, sleep, or caffeine levels

• Physical activity before reading

These help explain sudden changes in readings.

When to Call Your Doctor

Call if:

• Pressure readings are well above your target

• You feel sudden eye pain

• Vision becomes blurry or dim

• You notice new blind spots

Bring your log to each visit.
It helps your doctor make better decisions.

Sample Tracking Log

Make your own chart.
Use paper, a spreadsheet, or an app that syncs with your device.

Ask Your Doctor

• What’s my target eye pressure?

• Which home device should I use?

• How often should I measure?

• What readings should trigger a call?

• Can I bring my log to my next visit?

Clear answers help you manage glaucoma with confidence.

Final Thought

You can’t feel pressure rising.
But you can measure it.

Tracking gives you a clear picture.
It supports your treatment.
And it keeps your vision in focus—day by day.