Tonometer

tonometer

A tonometer is an instrument used to measure the pressure inside the eye, which is called intraocular pressure. Different kinds of tonometers exist: some gently touch the eye, some use a puff of air, and others are designed for routine office checks or for use at home. The reading from a tonometer helps doctors understand whether the pressure is within a healthy range or if it is abnormally high. Measuring eye pressure matters because elevated pressure is a major risk factor for conditions that can damage the optic nerve and reduce vision. Regular measurements help doctors decide when to start or adjust treatments and to monitor whether therapies are working. Tonometer readings can vary with the method used, the thickness of the cornea, and daily fluctuations, so clinicians interpret them alongside other eye findings. For people at risk, access to accurate tonometry is a key part of early detection and ongoing care. Newer portable and home tonometers aim to make monitoring easier, but proper technique and calibration remain important for reliable results.