How to Lower Eye Pressure Naturally?
Last updated on January 1st, 2025 at 03:07 pm
Increased pressure inside the eye, also called Intraocular pressure or ocular tension/hypertension, can cause severe eye-related problems, such as glaucoma. Glaucoma damages the optic nerves, leading to severe vision problems and permanent blindness. Therefore, it is essential to treat intraocular pressure in time. The best option is to cure it clinically; you can also try some methods to lower eye pressure naturally.
While most of us believe prolonged screen exposure is the leading cause of increased ocular tension. But, according to research, it is not one of the major causes. The most common cause of it is hereditary, meaning it runs in the family. Other causes of high eye pressure include:
- One main reason is excessive aqueous production. Aqueous matter can occasionally be created far more quickly than drained, causing aqueous buildup that raises intraocular pressure.
- Diabetes mellitus, heart conditions, and circulation disorders, including arteriosclerosis, can all raise eye pressure.
- Long-term use of corticosteroid medicines can raise ocular tension by harming the optic nerve and clouding the eye lens.
- Another condition affecting the eye is trauma, which causes an imbalance between aqueous production and drainage, leading to increased pressure.
- Other eye conditions, like corneal arcus, pigment dispersion syndrome, etc., can also increase it.
How to Know If You’ve High Eye Pressure?
Defects in the visual field and decreased vision are the initial symptoms of glaucoma. The other symptoms for you to take into account are the following:
- If there’s pain inside the eye
- Occasionally blurred vision
- Headaches that come on in the morning
- Discomfort and irritation to the eyes
- Red eyes and pain around the eyes when watching TV or using mobile phones.
Tips to Lower Eye Pressure Naturally
To lower eye pressure naturally, limit screen time, manage stress, sleep well, and use warm compresses. Drinking plenty of water, eating healthy foods, and doing eye exercises also help lower ocular tension by improving blood flow and easing strain.
A. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Your diet highly influences your general eye health. Eat foods full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, like oranges, carrots, almonds, seeds, and leafy greens.
Omega-3 fatty acids in walnuts, flaxseeds, and fish like salmon and sardines also help promote eye health. These nutrients can lower intraocular pressure naturally by enhancing blood circulation and reducing inflammation.
B. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water can also help lower eye pressure, as it maintains fluid balance. Adequate hydration ensures proper aqueous drainage, lowering the chance of elevated Intraocular pressure. Aim for eight glasses each day, and avoid excessive alcohol and coffee, as they might cause dehydration.
C. Practice Eye Exercises
Exercise for the eyes can help reduce eye pressure naturally by increasing blood flow to the eyes. Simple techniques like rolling your eyes, concentrating on far-off objects, and palming, which involves covering your eyes with your palms and applying light pressure, can be repeated multiple times during the day.
D. Reduce Screen Time
Spending too much time on screens might cause ocular tension. Hence, observe the 20-20-20 rule, which states looking at something twenty feet away for at least twenty seconds every twenty minutes. This lets your eyes relax and lessens eye strain. To avoid needless strain, make sure your screen is both at eye level and at a comfortable distance.
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E. Manage Stress
Stress can worsen many health conditions, including ocular pressure. Stress-reduction methods, such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing, or regular exercise, can help lower eye pressure. These hobbies promote greater eye health by calming the body and mind.
F. Get Regular Sleep
A restful night’s sleep is essential for general health, including our eye health. Ocular strain and elevated ocular pressure can result from sleep deprivation. To give your eyes time to rest and recover, try to get sleep for at least seven to nine hours every night.
G. Use Warm Compresses
Lastly, using a warm compress is also the best option for naturally lowering eye pressure. It helps relax the muscles in your eyes and improves blood flow. Additionally, it can encourage the removal of extra fluid, which can lower intraocular pressure.
To do this, soak a fresh cloth in warm water and wring off any excess. Then, put it over your closed eyes for five to ten minutes. Repeat this procedure many times daily for optimal effects.
When to see a doctor?
If you have any of the risk factors or reasons listed above, schedule regular checkups with an ophthalmologist to manage intraocular pressure. Screening for early detection can aid in the timely diagnosis and treatment of underlying diseases. Regular eye pressure tests are beneficial if glaucoma or high ocular hypertension are known or common in your family.
Conclusion
Keeping your eye healthy is essential to protect your vision and prevent problems like glaucoma. Along with medical treatments, simple natural methods can help. Eating a nutritious diet, drinking enough water, doing eye exercises, managing stress, and reducing screen time can all support better eye health and lower eye pressure naturally.
If you notice symptoms or have a family history of glaucoma, visit an eye doctor for regular checkups. Start using these tips today to care for your eyes and protect your vision for the future!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I lower my eye pressure quickly?
Use the eye drops your doctor gave you to reduce pressure quickly. Practice deep breathing to stay calm and relaxed. Drink small sips of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and help balance eye pressure.
What foods reduce eye pressure?
Eat leafy greens like spinach and kale, which are great for your eyes. Add omega-3 foods like salmon and walnuts, and eat fruits like oranges and berries for their vitamin C. Bananas, almonds, and avocados are also helpful in reducing your eye pressure.
Can massaging eyes reduce pressure?
Massaging around your eyes gently can improve blood flow and ease strain. Be careful not to press hard, as that could increase pressure or harm your eyes.
What not to do with high eye pressure?
Don’t sleep flat—use a pillow to keep your head up. Avoid drinking too much coffee, lifting heavy things, or spending too long on screens without breaks. Always take your medications as prescribed.
How should you sleep to lower eye pressure?
Sleep upright or with your head raised using a wedge pillow or by adjusting your bed. This helps fluids drain better and reduces pressure while you rest.
References:
https://betterview.co.uk/wiki/eye-pressure
https://www.centreforsight.net/blog/high-eye-pressure-causes-symptoms-and-treatment-options
