Can Caffeine Affect Your Eyes
Caffeine—it’s what many of us start our mornings off with and, for many more, how we recharge our afternoons. Caffeinated beverages are a delicious way of boosting your energy and stimulating the brain so that you’re awake, alert, and ready to seize the day. But can they be bad for your eyes?
To some extent, caffeine can benefit your eyesight. It has the potential to alleviate dry eyes, protect eyes against retinal damage, and more. But with overconsumption, comes negative effects.
Michigan’s top ophthalmologist is here to discuss the correlations between caffeine and vision and how much caffeine is the right amount. Read more to find out.
Short Term Effects of Caffeine on the Eyes
Overindulging in caffeinated beverages may increase blood sugar levels, which could lead to blurred vision or spasms of the eyelid, also known as jumping eye.
Have you ever experienced a tingly feeling or burning sensation in the eyes after drinking caffeine? Excessive caffeine consumption can cause this as well. Along with eye discomfort, the risk of inflammation and decreased attention is higher, which may result in jitters.
Additionally, overconsumption of caffeine can lead to chronic dry eye, increasing the risk of eye infections and corneal abrasions. Though mild symptoms such as loss of concentration or dry eyes aren’t considered dangerous, they can cause discomfort and disrupt daily activities such as reading and driving.
If you’re experiencing any eye irritations, it may be time to schedule an eye appointment at Michigan Eye Institute. We offer a comprehensive eye exam to discuss any vision questions or concerns you may have. Schedule an appointment today with our expert physicians and receive the premium vision care you deserve.
Long Term Effects of Caffeine on the Eyes
Studies show a correlation between drinking three or more cups of caffeine a day and the likelihood of developing glaucoma. Though caffeine doesn’t directly cause glaucoma, it may increase the risk for those with a stronger genetic predisposition of higher IOP (intraocular pressure).
Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages your eye’s optic nerve, typically due to high eye pressure. When you drink an excessive amount of caffeine, this increases the deposits inside the eye, which can cause what’s known as exfoliation syndrome.
Moderate caffeine intake isn’t bad for your vision. However, when overconsuming caffeine, short-term or long-term, that’s where the risk of developing glaucoma increases.
If you feel that you’re experiencing glaucoma symptoms, consult an eye doctor right away. Although glaucoma is not reversible, it can be managed and controlled with a glaucoma treatment regimen set by healthcare professionals.
Common symptoms of glaucoma in Michigan:
- Severe pain in the eye or forehead
- Redness of the eye
- Decreased or blurred vision
- Seeing rainbows or halos
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Michigan Eye Institute provides a list of glaucoma treatment options certified by expert ophthalmologists and optometrists. From eye drops to Minimally-Invasive Glaucoma surgery, book an appointment today to determine if you have glaucoma and the best solution for you.
So, How Much Caffeine Should You Drink?
With all things considered—don’t worry! Your favorite morning pick-me-up doesn’t have to go away.
Everything consumed in moderation is okay, and caffeine is no different. As far as how much you should consume, it’s hard to give a definitive answer, for it may vary from person to person.
However, the FDA has cited that 400 milligrams (mg) of caffeine a day is generally not associated with dangerous side effects. However, certain people may be more sensitive to caffeine than others. We suggest you consult with Michigan Eye institute or your PCP if you have questions about your intake.
That equals out to roughly four cups of brewed coffee or two “energy shot” drinks. Please keep in mind that the caffeine amount in beverages varies widely, especially among energy drinks.
Worried About Your Eye Health?
Don’t be. With Michigan Eye Institute, our friendly, qualified staff will guide you on your journey to better vision. Live the most comfortable life possible with our corrective lens solutions, in-house labs, and competitive pricing for quality offerings.
Schedule an appointment with Michigan Eye Institute today and prioritize your eye health. No matter what questions or concerns you have about your vision, our expert physicians will answer them all and ensure you get the best treatment that’s right for you.
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