Ocular Hypertension is a common condition that occurs in 3% to 8% of Americans over age 40. 

The eye makes fluid different from tears which then drains away. When fluid cannot drain, the eye pressure builds up in the system - known as ocular hypertension. This can damage the nerve at the back of the eye, causing glaucoma. 

A higher than normal eye pressure does not by itself mean that you have glaucoma. But people with ocular hypertension have a higher risk of developing glaucoma. So some doctors refer to them as "glaucoma suspects." 

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States, but little is known about preventing it.