Natural Ways to Decrease Intraocular Pressure

Intraocular pressure, or IOP, refers to the internal pressure of the human eye. Fluid known as aqueous humor gives the eyeball its shape. When this fluid exerts too much pressure, damage to the optic nerve can occur. High IOP is a risk factor for glaucoma, which may cause blindness by permanently damaging the optic nerve. Medications are often used to treat IOP, but natural treatments exist as well. These methods offer an alternative to drug therapy.

Aerobic Exercise

• Aerobic exercise, defined as raising the heartbeat above roughly 60 percent of maximum for at least 20 minutes, is a proven natural way to lower IOP, according to ophthalmologist Rick Wilson, M.D. Do this exercise at least four days per week for a minimum of 20 minutes each time. The increased carbon dioxide from the exercise increases the diameter of blood vessels and therefore lowers blood pressure. The effects of the exercise continue between sessions, but you must keep exercising on a regular basis.

Lower Your Blood Pressure

• Lower your blood pressure, and your IOP may decrease along with it. In addition to exercising, avoid foods or situations that raise your blood pressure. Caffeine is known to raise blood pressure, so avoid it as much as possible. Stress is another culprit, and the Mayo Clinic recommends stress avoidance as a means of staving off glaucoma. Watch for signs of poor blood circulation, such as cold hands and feet. Poor circulation there may indicate poor circulation to the optic nerve.

Supplements

• It is unclear whether vitamins or other supplements will lower IOP, but Dr. Wilson recommends a good multivitamin for women and one without iron for men. He also indicates that aspirin taken with a physician's approval may help. Extra vitamin C and E beyond the dosage found in the multivitamin may be of some benefit, but check with your physician before taking higher doses.

Water

• Drinking small amounts of water all during the day will keep you hydrated and may help with IOP, according to the Mayo Clinic. It is one of its recommendations for home remedies for elevated IOP. A large amount of water is defined as a quart or more over a short time frame.