The Role of Stress Reduction and Mindfulness Meditation in Glaucoma Management: A Review

Abstract

Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy that is increasing in prevalence worldwide and can lead to devastating vision loss and even blindness if left untreated. Current medical and surgical approaches to glaucoma treatment all aim to lower intraocular pressure (IOP), which is a well-known risk factor for glaucoma development and progression. Although the exact pathogenesis of glaucoma is not yet fully elucidated, multiple studies suggest that mental stress and elevated cortisol levels may contribute to IOP elevation and glaucomatous progression. In recent decades, various randomized-controlled trials have also demonstrated a significant reduction of IOP in patients practicing stress-reduction techniques, including mindfulness meditation and yoga. In this review, we discuss the relationship between mental stress and glaucoma and review the supporting literature to highlight the potential role of mindfulness meditation as an adjunctive strategy to reduce stress and thereby lower IOP in glaucoma patients.