Which condition is primarily associated with elevated intraocular pressure?

Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a key factor associated with glaucoma, which is a group of eye conditions that can lead to damage of the optic nerve and vision loss if left untreated. In glaucoma, the eye's drainage system becomes less efficient, leading to an accumulation of fluid inside the eye, which increases pressure. This is significant because many individuals with glaucoma may not experience symptoms initially, making regular eye examinations crucial for early detection. While not all individuals with elevated IOP will develop glaucoma, the condition is the most notable associated risk factor.

On the other hand, myopia (nearsightedness), cataracts (clouding of the lens), and astigmatism (irregular curvature of the cornea or lens) do not primarily relate to elevated IOP. While each of these conditions can have various impacts on vision or eye health, they do not revolve around the management of intraocular pressure in the same way glaucoma does. Therefore, identifying glaucoma as the condition primarily linked with elevated intraocular pressure is essential for understanding the importance of monitoring IOP in ophthalmic care.