The iCare HOME2 tonometer is a revolutionary solution designed to empower you in managing your eye care journey. This Q&A will answer questions about the device, how it works, and the support it offers.
Intraocular Pressure (IOP
What is IOP and why is it important to track?
Eye pressure, also known as intraocular pressure (IOP), refers to the fluid pressure within the eye. At times, your eye may produce too much fluid or not drain the fluid properly which could lead to elevated eye pressure — a significant risk factor for glaucoma. Hence, it’s important for anyone over 40 to undergo regular eye examinations, during which your doctor will routinely measure your IOP.
Device
What is a home tonometer?
iCare HOME2 is a handheld, battery-operated tonometer — a device that measures your intraocular pressure (IOP). It is portable and designed to let you take your own IOP measurements conveniently at home, or on the go.
What are the benefits of using iCare HOME2?
The iCare HOME2 tonometer lets you measure your IOP anytime and anywhere, creating a long-term picture of your eye pressure patterns. This valuable information will help your doctor understand your condition better and develop personalized treatment plans.
This tonometer is gentle, fast, and easy to use. You don’t need to write down your readings — the device displays your results digitally, on the mobile iCare PATIENT2 app, or on your iCare CLOUD account.
Does it hurt when you take measurements?
No, taking measurements with the iCare HOME2 is completely painless, gentle, and quick. There’s no need for anesthesia.
How many times do I need to take my measurements and what is the target pressure?
According to the doctor’s recommendations, you usually measure 3-6 times a day. The first measurement is typically early in the morning and the last one is late at night before going to bed.
Every patient is unique, and physicians customize the target IOPs individually. The target pressure is a value based on the severity of the disease, the baseline level of untreated IOP, and the presence of risk factors for the development or progression of glaucoma.1
Readings
Are the readings accurate?
The accuracy of the iCare HOME2 tonometer is clinically tested — and provides the same technology available in the doctor’s office, but in the comfort of your home.
Why does my measurement result change throughout the day?
Please discuss your results with your doctor as IOP values can vary between individuals. It is normal for eye pressure to fluctuate throughout the day. Eye pressure is a dynamic parameter that can fluctuate 2-6 mmHg in healthy eyes. Glaucoma patients could have fluctuations greater than 10 mmHg. IOP can also fluctuate because of body position, time of day (peaks at night, troughs during the day), blood pressure, ocular perfusion pressure, stress or pain levels, water consumption, and more.2
Are there other factors that could affect my eye pressure?
People who engage in anaerobic exercise may hold their breath temporarily while straining — this can raise eye pressure and further increase the risk of developing glaucoma or worsening vision loss in people who have the disease. 3
Ease of use
Is the iCare HOME2 easy to use, do I need any instructions or guidance?
The iCare HOME2 tonometer is very easy to use — it comes with clear instructions and materials to get you started. If you need assistance, simply contact the distributor or sales agent you bought it from to get the support you need.
If you’re considering purchasing an iCare HOME2 tonometer, have a chat with your local distributor or sales agent. They’ll be happy to answer any questions you have and guide you through the process.
Is it recommended to use the iCare HOME2 if I have low vision?
To determine if the tonometer is a viable option for you, it’s best to consult with your doctor. The great majority of patients even with lowered vision can use the iCare HOME2 independently without difficulty.
Can I travel with my iCare HOME2?
Yes, you can carry your iCare HOME2 tonometer with you wherever you go. The device is lightweight and comes with a custom-designed case. We recommend packing the tonometer in your carry-on luggage when you fly.
Connectivity
How do I share my results with my doctor?
iCare HOME2 offers multiple ways to share your results with your eye care professional. You can access your IOP (intraocular pressure) data digitally, either through the tonometer’s screen or the mobile iCare PATIENT2 app. You can also print the IOP results from your iCare CLOUD account before you visit the doctor. This flexibility allows for convenient remote sharing with your ophthalmologist.
Note that if you only look at the results on the tonometer’s screen, you won’t be able to share your comprehensive eye pressure data with your doctor. We recommend sharing this data with your doctor in a graph format, which enables them to easily observe eye pressure spikes and fluctuations.
How do I connect my phone to the tonometer?
You can transfer your IOP results from the tonometer using either Bluetooth or a USB cable.
Cleaning and maintenance
How should I clean and maintain my tonometer?
Cleaning your tonometer is simple — just use a cloth or a dampened paper towel to wipe down the plastic surfaces.
The tonometer does not need calibration. Remember to replace the batteries as needed. We recommend changing the probe base every six months to ensure the device is working properly.
How often do I change the batteries?
You can expect to make about 1,000 measurements before needing to change your batteries.
Your iCare HOME2 accepts 4 x 1.5 V, AA, non-rechargeable batteries, alkaline LR6.
How often should the probes be changed?
The probes are intended for single use only. A single use is defined by a successful measurement of each eye. However, if either eye is inflamed or infected, be sure to measure the healthy eye first.
Product Assistance/ Troubleshooting
Why am I receiving an error message? What are the common causes for not obtaining a reading?
The most common causes for not obtaining a reading and receiving an error message include:
- Taking the measurement too far or too close to the eye.
- The probe not being perpendicular to the eye.
- The probe accidentally hitting the eyelid or eyelashes.
When any of these situations occur, the tonometer will display a message on the screen that will guide you to obtain a successful reading.
What do I do if the tonometer can’t recognize my eyes?
If your tonometer fails to recognize your eyes during the measurement, you can manually select your eye using the tonometer buttons after the measurement, and it will be accepted.
Information and support
Where can I find more information on iCare HOME2?
To learn more about iCare HOME2, visit https://patients.icare-world.com/. The website also offers information on how to find your local distributor or sales agent.
What kind of support do I get after purchasing iCare HOME2?
Once you buy the tonometer, you will have access to comprehensive support materials for using your iCare HOME2. Additionally, the distributor or sales agent can provide you with guides and support if necessary.
What do doctors and patients have to say about iCare HOME2?
You can check out firsthand accounts from patients and medical professionals who use iCare HOME2 on our testimonials page.
References:
1 A rational approach to target IOP ranges