Speedy Changes in My IOP

Probably the most interesting thing about today's data is the series of measurements behind the IOP value at 19:20 (7:20 PM) for my right eye.                                                                                                                                                                               

The reported value below of 16.9 consists of 8 sequential measurements taken approximately 20 seconds apart. The values, in the order in which they were collected, were:

22 17 19 16 15 16 16 14

Notice how my IOP dropped dramatically and consistently over this period of less than 3 minutes. The change from 22 to 14 is large. In order to really know what is happening, we would have to design some tests where we can reproduce this effect and measure it more carefully. The data above was collected in a routine manner. However, if I had to guess, the first thing I would look at is postural changes. There was a change from a lengthy standing period to sitting immediately before this measurement.

As usual, the post-weight lifting effect is noticeable in the data below at 18:20. This effect is so predictable and repeatable now, that there is no question a short weight lifting session will reduce my IOP significantly. The only question is how long the reduced IOP persists. Today, the effect was gone in an hour. Other times it seems to last longer than that.

The IOP value at 13:48 is also interesting. I've seen indications (lots of them) that stress increases my IOP. Here's an indication that the stress doesn't have to be a negative event. At 13:48 I received some exciting news related to a business opportunity. The news spurred a lot of questions, so I could assume there was some stress. However, I was certainly feeling good about it, yet my IOP responded the same way it does to negative stress.

Today's overall averages are:

Left 12.8; Right 15.6

Those numbers are not too bad, I guess. It continues to interest me that the effect of the Timoptic GFS (gel forming solution) lasts so long. The last time I used it was the night of 11/13. Comparing today's values to earlier periods (before I was using Timoptic) make it clear that the IOP lower effects of Timoptic are still present after 3 days.