Having a high intraocular pressure, also known as IOP, does not necessarily indicate that you have glaucoma. If your doctor notes a high eye pressure, she will monitor your vision and the health of your optic nerve, and if changes occur over time, she may diagnose you with the condition. Lowering your IOP will reduce the likelihood of further damage and limit your vision loss, but supplements such as vitamins will not offer an effective method of IOP reduction.
IOP Reduction
You do not need to reduce your eye pressure unless you have glaucoma or your doctor has concerns. If your pressure is too high, she will prescribe medications that will bring down your IOP. The typical treatment begins with one or more eye drops, and your doctor will inform you how often to take them and the time of day. These medications often cause eye irritation and other side effects, and if you experience these effects, inform your doctor. Doctors have limited treatment options, and, in most cases, you will need to continue using the medication unless you have a severe reaction such as difficulty breathing.
Treatment
If you have glaucoma, you'll need to reduce your eye pressure, and the only ways to reduce your IOP are with medication or surgery. Doctors will typically prescribe an eye drop initially, adding more if necessary. If eye drops do not prove effective, your doctor may recommend a surgical procedure to improve the drainage channel for the fluid inside the front section of your eyes. In some cases you may need a combination of medications and surgery to adequately reduce your intraocular pressure.
Benefits
Although vitamins cannot reduce your eye pressure, they may have benefits for the overall health of your eyes. Certain nutrients, particularly antioxidants such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein, zinc and selenium, may help prevent vision-threatening eye conditions such as macular degeneration and cataracts. The nutrients you consume through your diet can help you prevent or slow down these conditions. If you have a family history or other risk factors for eye disease, your doctor may recommend a daily vitamin supplement to promote eye health.
Considerations
If you have risk factors for glaucoma, such as a family history, discuss the role of proper nutrition with your doctor. Vitamins will not lower your eye pressure, but nutrients can help prevent other eye diseases that will increase your risk for glaucoma. Your doctor can help you determine if you should take a daily supplement such as a multivitamin.
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