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Wearing swimming goggles can elevate intraocular pressure
W H Morgan1, T S Cunneen, C Balaratnasingam
1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia. whmorgan@cyllene.uwa.edu.au
The British Journal of Ophthalmology
|July 16, 2008
Summary
Wearing swimming goggles can significantly increase intraocular pressure (IOP), with smaller goggle face areas causing greater IOP elevation. This pressure increase is sustained during wear.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Sports Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Intraocular pressure (IOP) is a critical factor in eye health.
- Swimming goggles are commonly used but their physiological effects are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the acute effects of wearing swimming goggles on intraocular pressure (IOP).
Main Methods:
- A pilot study (n=15) and a validation study (n=20) were conducted.
- IOP was measured using applanation tonometry before, during, and after wearing 13 different swimming goggles.
- A predictive model was developed based on goggle design and anatomical parameters.
Main Results:
- Wearing swimming goggles led to a sustained mean IOP increase of 4.5 mm Hg (p<0.001).
- A smaller goggle face area was significantly associated with a greater IOP elevation (p=0.013).
Conclusions:
- Some swimming goggles can acutely elevate intraocular pressure.
- The IOP increase is sustained throughout the duration of goggle wear.
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