Yearly Archives: 2018

How Does a Tonometer Work?

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of permanent blindness around the world.  More than 3 million people suffer from this condition in the U.S. alone.  A tonometer offers a succinct and accurate way to diagnose glaucoma, and then identify treatment options. Tonometry is a practice in which the eye’s intraocular pressure (IOP) is measured.  This is determined by the eye surface’s firmness or tone.  Normal IOP readings typically register around 15.  Readings at 21 or higher often indicate a likelihood for glaucoma development. THERE ARE FOUR COMMON TYPES OF TONOMETERS 1. Non-contact This type of tonometer has been popularized by eyewear retailers like LensCrafters.  Non-contact tonometry is often called the “air puff” test.  Here, a small blast of air is shot into the eye, flattening the cornea. 2. Goldman The Goldman tonometer is the most well-known, and it’s considered by many to be the most accurate.  This tonometer involves the use of eye drops and dye Read More