While a cup of coffee gives you a boost of energy to get through a tough day, consuming too much caffeine comes with several drawbacks. The most common side effects include anxiety, restlessness, headaches, and dehydration. But you may not know that an elevated caffeine intake is also linked to glaucoma, a severe eye condition that affects the optic nerve.
Keep reading to learn more.
The Link Between Caffeine and Glaucoma
High caffeine levels cause temporary eye pressure spikes, and a recent study has examined the long-term effects of caffeine on eye health. The study has found that patients genetically predisposed to the condition are more likely to develop glaucoma if they consume large doses of caffeine.
When the participants with no family history of the disease consumed a lot of caffeine, their eye health didn’t suffer. So, it appears that caffeine has a negative impact only on patients with a family history of glaucoma.
If left unaddressed, glaucoma may result in vision loss. Medical providers recommend that patients with glaucoma modify their lifestyles and adopt healthier habits to manage the condition and strengthen their eyes. Quality sleep, physical activity, and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables prevent complications, but patients should also consider cutting down on caffeine. If you enjoy three cups of coffee during the day, it might be best to limit yourself to one cup in the morning.
Keep the Eye Pressure Low and Prevent Glaucoma
People who are hereditarily predisposed to glaucoma should consult their medical provider to find the best treatment plan. Lowering your caffeine intake and receiving the appropriate therapy will keep the optic nerve in good condition.
