Caffeine raises eye pressure

A big and seemingly well designed study has shown the effect of caffiene on intraocular pressure (IOP).

106 patients split into 4 groups (3 types of glaucoma, 1 no glaucoma) and were seen twice. Before 1 visit they were given caffeine or decaf coffee and then the opposite on the second visit. The study was double blind meaning neither the researchers taking the measurements or the participants knew if they had had the decaf or the fullcaf drink.

The results showed that IOP is increased by about 1 unit after caffeine with maximum effect at about 90minutes but the effect is temporary and not very great so needn’t concern coffee lovers with glaucoma.

Previous studies had put the frighteners on some folks with glaucoma claiming coffee was bad for the condition, but this study will hopefully let them enjoy a cappuccino in peace.