A tonometry test measures the pressure inside your eye, which is called intraocular pressure (IOP). This test is used to check for glaucoma, an eye disease that can cause blindness by damaging the nerve in the back of the eye (optic nerve).

Which professional might use a tonometer?

Tonometry is a common procedure employed by ophthalmologists to measure intraocular pressure (IOP) using a calibrated instrument.

Why do they check eye pressure?

Tonometry is a quick and simple test that checks the pressure inside your eyes. The results can help your doctor see if you're at risk for glaucoma. Glaucoma is a disease in which the nerve of the eye (the optic nerve) is gradually damaged over time, resulting in a loss of vision.