Sleeping with Two Pillows May Increase Eye Pressure in Glaucoma Patients
A recent study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology suggests that sleeping with two pillows may pose unexpected health risks for individuals with glaucoma. While elevating the head is often recommended to alleviate conditions like acid reflux or sleep apnea, researchers found that this position can significantly increase intraocular pressure (IOP). The study revealed that stacking pillows to achieve a 20 to 35-degree elevation led to higher eye pressure in two-thirds of glaucoma patients, potentially worsening optic nerve damage and vision loss. This effect was particularly pronounced in participants under the age of 44. Experts theorize that head elevation causes neck flexion, which constricts jugular veins and impedes fluid drainage from the eyes. Although previous guidance suggested elevated sleeping positions to lower IOP, these findings challenge that standard advice. Sleep specialists generally recommend using only one pillow to maintain natural spine alignment, though some suggest placing pillows under knees or necks for specific support. Dr. Thomas V. Johnson from Johns Hopkins University notes that while evidence is not yet definitive enough to mandate specific changes, patients with advanced glaucoma should be aware of how body position affects eye pressure.
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Sleeping with Two Pillows May Increase Eye Pressure in Glaucoma Patients
A recent study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology suggests that sleeping with two pillows may pose unexpected health risks for individuals with glaucoma. While elevating the head is often recommended to alleviate conditions like acid reflux or sleep apnea, researchers found that this position can significantly increase intraocular pressure (IOP). The study revealed that stacking pillows to achieve a 20 to 35-degree elevation led to higher eye pressure in two-thirds of glaucoma patients, potentially worsening optic nerve damage and vision loss. This effect was particularly pronounced in participants under the age of 44. Experts theorize that head elevation causes neck flexion, which constricts jugular veins and impedes fluid drainage from the eyes. Although previous guidance suggested elevated sleeping positions to lower IOP, these findings challenge that standard advice. Sleep specialists generally recommend using only one pillow to maintain natural spine alignment, though some suggest placing pillows under knees or necks for specific support. Dr. Thomas V. Johnson from Johns Hopkins University notes that while evidence is not yet definitive enough to mandate specific changes, patients with advanced glaucoma should be aware of how body position affects eye pressure.
New York Post