How to Control Eye Pressure

Your eye produces a clear liquid called aquous that fills the space between the corneus and iris (anterior chamber). If the drainage system is not working properly, you may develop a buildup of liquid and it causes your intraocular pressure (IOP) to increase. This condition normally does not have symptoms and is usually detected when you have an eye exam. The National Eye Institute conducted several studies and found that the use of eye drops effectively lowers eye pressure (See References 1).

Things You'll Need

• Prescription eye drops
• Timer
• Hand sanitizer/soap
• Wrist weights

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Instructions

• 1

  Make an appointment to get your eyes checked. If you have been diagnosed with IOP your doctor may subscribe eye drops to control the pressure.

• 2

  Wash your hands before using the eye drops. Set the timer for four minutes. If your hand shakes you may want to use light wrist weights to help steady them.

• 3

  Lay flat down on your back on a bed or sofa and close your eyes.

• 4

  Place an eye drop in the corner of the eyelid near the bridge of the nose. Continue to lay on your back.

• 5

  Open your eye and the drop should roll in the eye. Close the eye and do not blink.

• 6

  Keep the eyes closed for a few minutes or until the timer goes off.

• 7

  Repeat the process if you think the drop did not go in your eye. The eye can only hold one drop and any excess will run out of the eye. According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, it is better to have excess run out of the eye than having too much medication in the eye (See References 2).

• 8

  Wait five minutes if you are required to put in two drops and repeat the process. This will give the first drop a chance to work.