The evolution of a self-tonometrist

Becoming familiar and comfortable with the tonometer is the first task after acquiring a new tonometer. This period can be exciting, but also  daunting to some. There is more familiarity with the concept of monitoring one's blood pressure or blood sugar (in the case of diabetes), and so the thought of measuring one's own eye pressures might seem a little odd at first. However, the tonometers used by the FitEyes community for self tonometry are very easy to use, foolproof and accurate. But it is understandable that because the eye pressure monitoring process is deemed suitable only for doctors or clinics, the idea may take a little getting used to. That is why we at FitEyes are here to help you get comfortable and make friends with your tonometer so you don't have to feel like "the Lone Ranger" in the process.  It is important to remind yourself that you are a pioneer and part of a growing community of tonometrists.

The first thing to do after receiving your new tonometer, will be to find a suitable and comfortable place to take your measurements. This should normally be a place where it is fairly quiet, free from interruption, and with cheerful surroundings (emotions do matter). It should also be a place which is fairly clean and where there are no environmental extremes that would be harmful to the instrument. Next, you will fully familiarize yourself with the controls, alignment (if other than Reichert), and any software which might be used.