Eye Pressure Exercises

Increased pressure in the eyes, otherwise identified as ocular hypertension, is a serious condition affecting millions worldwide. Eye pressure, or intraocular pressure, rises when a buildup of natural fluid called aqueous humor doesn't properly drain from the eye. High eye pressure left unmonitored and untreated may eventually lead to glaucoma, which damages the optic nerve and eventually causes blindness. If you've been diagnosed with ocular hypertension, or if glaucoma runs in your family, there are exercises that may decrease your eye pressure.

Exercise

• Exercise is a main component in lowering intraocular pressure. According to a study by Johns Hopkins, taking a walk three or more times a week can help decrease eye pressure.

  If you don't currently have an exercise program, start walking three times a week for 20 minutes or more, and work up to a level of exercise you're comfortable with. Moderate exercise for three months has been shown to reduce ocular hypertension by an average of 20 percent.

  Jogging and weightlifting have also been shown to reduce eye pressure. If walking is not enough, incorporate jogging and weight lifting three times a week for 20 minutes each. Before weightlifting, ask your doctor about proper breathing techniques. Improper breathing during exercise may increase intraocular pressure.

  Keep a regular exercise regime for the best results. Vary your type of exercise to prevent boredom. Biking, rowing, and other cardiovascular activities are great exercises that lower eye pressure and benefit your overall health.

  Steer clear, however, of inverted positions used in yoga as they may increase intraocular pressure.

  Get out and exercise your eyes. Staring too long at a computer or reading too much can cause high eye pressure. Take periodic breaks from the computer and walk around to give your eyes a break.

Diet

• While studies have not yet been conclusive, keeping a healthy diet filled with vitamins A, C and E may help lower eye pressure. Maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure as obesity and hypertension may be linked to ocular hypertension. Speak to your doctor about building a nutrition plan for both eye and overall health.

  Gradually sip fluids over the course of a day to hydrate. Studies indicate that drinking a quart or more of water in less than 20 minutes raises intraocular pressure. Keep a water bottle with you throughout the day, and consume only small amounts of water at one time.

Stress

• Control amounts of daily stress with stress management techniques. Large levels of stress have been shown to cause high eye pressure by reducing blood flow to the head, which increases intraocular pressure. Use meditation, exercise, or other stress management techniques to lower eye pressure.

Monitor

• Visit an ophthalmologist every two years for a check up. Monitor your intraocular pressure and increases that occur to prevent the onset of glaucoma. Your ophthalmologist will provide you with the correct medications to reduce and control your ocular hypertension.