Top 10 Lifestyle Interventions for Glaucoma

#5: Caffeine — A Small Habit That Can Temporarily Raise Eye Pressure

Why This Matters for Glaucoma

Caffeine can cause a short-term increase in intraocular pressure (IOP), especially in higher doses or sensitive individuals.

IOP fluctuates throughout the day. Even small, repeated spikes may matter over time—especially in patients with glaucoma.

What the Science Shows

  • Transient IOP elevation:
    Caffeine intake has been shown to increase eye pressure for a short period after consumption.

  • Stronger effect at higher doses:
    Larger amounts of caffeine are more likely to produce noticeable IOP changes.

  • Variable response between individuals:
    Some people are more sensitive to caffeine-related IOP spikes than others.

Why Does This Happen?

Caffeine may:

  • Increase aqueous humor production

  • Affect blood flow and vascular tone

  • Stimulate the nervous system

What to Watch For

  • Large amounts of coffee or energy drinks
  • Rapid consumption (e.g., multiple cups in a short time)

What Should You Do?

  • Moderate intake (not necessarily eliminate)
  • Spread consumption throughout the day
  • Pay attention to individual response

Bottom Line

Caffeine isn’t inherently harmful—but high doses may temporarily raise eye pressure.

Moderation is key.

Those with strong family histories of glaucoma may benefit from decreasing or eliminating their coffee consumption

Key References

  1. Li X, Cheng S, Cheng J, et al. Habitual coffee consumption increases risk of primary open-angle glaucoma: a Mendelian randomization study. Ophthalmology. 2022.
  2. Bae JH, Kim JM, Lee JM, et al. Effects of consumption of coffee, tea, or soft drinks on open-angle glaucoma: Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010 to 2011. PLoS One. 2020.
  3. Chandrasekaran S, Rochtchina E, Mitchell P. Effects of caffeine on intraocular pressure: the Blue Mountains Eye Study. J Glaucoma. 2005.
  4. Kang JH, Willett WC, Rosner BA, Hankinson SE, Pasquale LR. Caffeine consumption and the risk of primary open-angle glaucoma: a prospective cohort study. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2008.
  5. Li M, Wang M, Guo W, Wang J, Sun X. The effect of caffeine on intraocular pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 2011.
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