What Causes High Eye Pressure and How to Reduce It?
AUTHOR
Ophthalmologist/ Eye Surgeon 13+ Years Exp
MBBS, MS – Ophthalmology
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If you’ve been told you have high eye pressure, it might feel a bit unsettling, and you’re probably wondering, why is this happening? And how can I fix it?
Don’t worry—this isn’t as uncommon as you might think, and there are ways to address it effectively. Let’s go step by step, so by the end of this blog, you’ll have all the clarity you need.
First Things First – What Exactly Is High Eye Pressure?
Your eyes naturally maintain some pressure to keep their shape and function correctly. This is called intraocular pressure (IOP). When this pressure builds up beyond the normal range (10 to 21 mmHg is considered typical), it’s referred to as high eye pressure or ocular hypertension.
While high IOP doesn’t always lead to problems, it can be a warning sign for conditions like glaucoma—a serious eye disease that can damage the optic nerve and lead to long-term vision loss if left untreated.
How Do You Know If You Have High Eye Pressure?
The tricky part is, high IOP usually doesn’t have obvious symptoms. That’s why it often gets detected during a routine eye exam. Surprising, right?
It’s not something you’d notice unless an optometrist measures your eye pressure using a test called tonometry. This makes regular eye check-ups crucial, even if you think your vision is fine.
The Causes Behind High Eye Pressure
Alright, let’s get to the root of the issue. Why does eye pressure increase in the first place? It often comes down to a combination of factors:
1. Imbalanced Fluid Drainage
Your eyes produce a fluid called aqueous humour, which flows through them and drains away via specific channels. When these drainage channels become blocked or work inefficiently, fluid builds up, increasing pressure.
Example: Imagine filling a sink with the tap running—if the drain gets clogged, the water level rises. That’s similar to what happens in your eye.
2. Overproduction of Eye Fluid
Sometimes, the issue isn’t the drain but the “tap”. If your eyes produce too much aqueous humour, it can overwhelm the drainage system, again causing pressure to rise.
3. Eye Injuries
An old eye injury or trauma can cause structural changes in the eye, disrupting the delicate balance of fluid production and drainage.
4. Medications
Certain medications—especially long-term use of steroids (for asthma, arthritis, etc.)—can cause fluid retention, leading to heightened IOP. If you’re taking these, it’s worth discussing their side effects with your doctor.
5. Genetics
Unfortunately, family history plays a role too. If high IOP or glaucoma runs in your family, you’re at a higher risk.
6. Ageing
You’re not alone—IOP often creeps up naturally as you age. This is just one reason why staying proactive about eye health is so vital.
7. Underlying Medical Conditions
Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or even high blood pressure can all contribute to increased eye pressure. The link? These problems impact blood flow and fluid management.
Now that we’ve cracked the “why”, it’s time to shift gears and look at what you can do about it.
How to Reduce High Eye Pressure – Actionable Tips That Work
The good news? There are practical steps you can take to manage or lower your eye pressure. From lifestyle tweaks to medical interventions, here’s your action plan:
1. Follow the Treatment Plan from Your Eye Doctor
If your ophthalmologist prescribes drops or medications, use them exactly as directed. These drops often reduce the production of aqueous humour or improve fluid drainage.
Pro Tip: Set reminders on your phone or stick a note by your bathroom mirror—missing doses can undo progress.
2. Eat Foods That Support Eye Health
Your diet plays a bigger role in eye health than you might think. Focus on:
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale): These are packed with antioxidants that boost blood flow to the eyes.
- Omega-3-rich foods (salmon, flaxseeds): These reduce inflammation, which can support overall eye health.
- Fruits and veggies high in vitamin C and E (oranges, tomatoes, almonds): They protect the cells in your eyes from damage.
3. Exercise, but *Smartly*
Being active supports healthy blood circulation, which is great for your eyes—just don’t overdo it. Avoid activities like heavy weightlifting, as this can temporarily raise eye pressure.
Best Exercise Options: Walking, jogging, yoga—with a focus on poses that keep your head above your heart.
4. Stay Hydrated (The Right Way)
Drinking water throughout the day is beneficial, but here’s a surprising tip—avoid gulping down large amounts in one go. Sipping smaller amounts works better for maintaining stable IOP.
5. Limit Caffeine and Salt
Sad news for coffee lovers, but too much caffeine (think several cups a day) could cause temporary spikes in eye pressure. Salt, meanwhile, can indirectly increase IOP by causing blood pressure to rise.
6. Quit Smoking
Here’s one more reason to ditch the cigarettes. Smoking affects blood vessels and worsens conditions like glaucoma, so cutting it out is one of the best things you can do for those peepers.
7. Manage Your Stress
Shocking but true—stress can cause a temporary surge in IOP. Deep breathing exercises or mindfulness practices are simple yet effective ways to keep pressure in check.
Example: Regular meditation—even just 10 minutes a day—can do wonders for both your mental health and your eye health.
8. Protect Your Eyes
Wearing protective eyewear during risky activities, like sports or DIY projects, reduces the chances of injury, which can lead to increased IOP.
9. Prioritise Regular Eye Exams
Even if you feel fine, routine check-ups help catch high eye pressure early. Most adults should have a comprehensive exam at least once every two years.
Final Thoughts – Keep an Eye on Your Vision
High eye pressure might sound scary at first, but with the right care and attention, it’s manageable. Think of it as a gentle nudge to prioritise your eye health.
From making smarter lifestyle choices to working closely with your eye doctor, these steps can help keep your vision sharp for years to come.
Feeling inspired to take charge of your eye health? Here’s your first step—book an eye exam today.
Whether you’re due for a check-up or just want peace of mind, it’s the easiest way to ensure your eyes are in good hands. Don’t wait—your vision deserves it.
AUTHOR
Ophthalmologist/ Eye Surgeon 13+ Years Exp
MBBS, MS – Ophthalmology
CALL US 24/7 FOR ANY HELP
GET IN TOUCH ON
