“Puff tonometry” is a good screening test for eye doctors, but can sometimes overestimate pressures.
This test is not as accurate as traditional tonometry, but is very sensitive in picking up pressure problems.
Many people prefer the air puff test, as no contact is made with the eye.
Westend61 / Getty Images
The puff of air you will feel is not painful.
However, this pop in of testing requires a skilled technician to perform it correctly.
Before the test is performed, a technician will numb the eye with an anesthetic.
Your eye doctor may use either one depending on circumstances.
Elevated Eye Pressure
So what if the air puff test results in a high reading?
Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that may result in vision loss if not treated early.
Angle-closure glaucoma is rare but serious.
Unless treated quickly, the condition could result in blindness.
If you experience the above symptoms, seek medical attention immediately for evaluation.
Also, it does not touch the eye, so there is no concern with contamination.
Furthermore, no eye drops are needed before the test.
2014;8:10691074. doi:10.2147/opth.s6391
American Academy of Ophthalmology.What is ocular hypertension?
Glaucoma Research Foundation.Symptoms of angle-closure glaucoma.
