Does Sustained Eye Pressure Increase Lead to Glaucoma Risks?

Will intraocular pressure continue to rise?

Doctor, excuse me, I would like to ask a question.
When we tightly close our eyes, the intraocular pressure increases.
If we continue to tightly close our eyes, will the intraocular pressure continue to rise? And could this sustained increase in intraocular pressure lead to glaucoma? Thank you, doctor.

Xiao Lin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/09

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

The increase in intraocular pressure caused by forcefully closing the eyes is temporary and generally does not lead to glaucoma; the intraocular pressure will not remain elevated.
- Dr.
Ho Chien-Hsien, Ophthalmology Department, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2022/03/09

More Info

Sustained eye pressure increases can indeed pose risks for glaucoma, a condition characterized by damage to the optic nerve often associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). When you exert pressure on your eyes, such as by tightly closing them, the IOP can temporarily rise. However, the key concern is whether this temporary increase can lead to sustained high pressure and, subsequently, glaucoma.

1. Mechanism of Eye Pressure Increase: When you close your eyes tightly, the muscles around the eyes contract, which can lead to a temporary increase in IOP. This is a normal physiological response. However, if this action is repeated excessively or held for prolonged periods, it may contribute to a more sustained increase in IOP. The eye's drainage system, primarily the trabecular meshwork, is responsible for maintaining normal IOP by allowing aqueous humor (the fluid inside the eye) to drain. If this drainage is impeded due to sustained pressure or other factors, it can lead to elevated IOP.

2. Risk of Glaucoma: Glaucoma is often associated with chronic elevated IOP, but not everyone with high IOP will develop glaucoma. The condition is multifactorial, and other risk factors include age, family history, ethnicity, and existing eye conditions. Sustained high IOP can damage the optic nerve over time, leading to vision loss. Therefore, while temporary increases in IOP from actions like tightly closing your eyes are unlikely to cause glaucoma, repeated or chronic elevation of eye pressure can be a concern.

3. Monitoring and Management: If you are concerned about your eye pressure, it is essential to have regular eye examinations. An eye care professional can measure your IOP and assess the health of your optic nerve through a comprehensive eye exam. If elevated IOP is detected, your doctor may recommend monitoring or treatment options to lower the pressure and reduce the risk of glaucoma.

4. Preventive Measures: To minimize the risk of elevated IOP, avoid activities that may cause prolonged pressure on the eyes. This includes not only tightly closing your eyes but also avoiding excessive rubbing or pressing on the eyes. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and staying hydrated, can also support overall eye health.

5. Conclusion: In summary, while temporarily closing your eyes tightly may lead to a short-term increase in IOP, it is unlikely to cause glaucoma by itself. However, if you find yourself frequently experiencing elevated eye pressure or have concerns about your eye health, it is crucial to consult with an eye care professional for appropriate evaluation and management. Regular monitoring is key to preventing potential complications associated with elevated IOP and glaucoma.

Similar Q&A

Does Prolonged 3C Device Use Increase Eye Pressure and Risk of Glaucoma?

Hello Doctor: 1. I would like to ask if prolonged use of electronic devices can lead to elevated intraocular pressure and result in glaucoma? 2. Can using a mobile phone in low light conditions cause glaucoma?

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello, those who are confused: Prolonged use of electronic devices does not directly cause glaucoma, but it can lead to eye fatigue. However, using your eyes in dim lighting can cause prolonged dilation of the pupils, which may obstruct the circulation of intraocular fluid and po...

Can Patients with Glaucoma Use Progressive Lenses Safely?

Hello Doctor: I would like to ask if patients diagnosed with glaucoma can choose progressive lenses. Will photochromic lenses cause increased intraocular pressure? Thank you!

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Ms. Su: You can choose progressive lenses for glaucoma. I understand your concern about larger pupils potentially causing an increase in intraocular pressure due to angle-closure glaucoma. When progressive lenses transition to tinted, it occurs in brighter light conditions,...

Understanding High Eye Pressure: Risks, Treatments, and Care Tips

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing consistently elevated intraocular pressure, usually around 22-23 mmHg. I have had a comprehensive eye examination at a major hospital, and my fundus examination appeared normal. I would like to ask if having this consistently high eye pressu...

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology
Hello, intraocular pressure is not the sole criterion for diagnosing glaucoma; regular monitoring is sufficient. Reducing the use of electronic devices and allowing your eyes to rest is beneficial. Corneal thickness can affect the accuracy of intraocular pressure readings; genera...

Does High Eye Pressure Cause Increased Floaters?

Can high intraocular pressure cause floaters? I have experienced elevated eye pressure for a period of time, and it seems that my floaters have increased as well. However, after examination, there were no signs of glaucoma or retinal issues.

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Mr. Chen: There is no specific relationship between elevated intraocular pressure and floaters. After examination, there are no issues, so you can be reassured.