Your patient is already on treatment for glaucoma but the pressure is still high

Glaucoma damage occurs over several months to years. Short-term fluctuations in pressure are not uncommon, indeed there is some daily change in intraocular pressure (IOP). Optometrists tend to measure IOP using air puff tonometry, which tends to overestimate pressure. As a general rule, if the patient is already on treatment and has pressure in excess of 30mmHg, it is worth contacting the hospital and expediting their appointment for review. If the pressure is less than 30mmHg and the patient's glaucoma is not severe, then they can usually wait for their next follow-up. Ask your patient if they are using their drops. If not, then insist they do!