NJ
A 34-year-old female asked:
Can nervousness and tension cause sudden rise in eye pressure during eye exam? can this be misinterpreted as glaucoma symptom? tension/nervousness would be related to prexisting condition of minor cp with no prior/current eye issues for a 45 yr old?
2 doctor answers • 2 doctors weighed in

Dr. Hiep Leanswered
Nephrology and Dialysis 44 years experience
Nervousness and tension can increase systemic pressure but less likely affect the intraocular pressure. High intraocular pressure can lead to glaucoma and not all cases of glaucoma have high intraocular pressure. You should have it checked again and have it monitored as recommended. Most clinicians would initiate treatment in a patient with two instances of IOP above 25 mmHg.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Reviewed Mar 31, 2022

Dr. Bennett Machanicanswered
Neurology 54 years experience
Emotional stress such as anxiety or nervousness will not have any profound effect on intraocular pressure or even intracranial pressure. However, a Valsalva maneuver, that is forced straining, might transiently increase these pressures for a few seconds, but most physicians would disregard this event when checking eye pressures. Do heed glaucoma advice.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Answered Mar 31, 2022
Last updated Mar 31, 2022
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