The Effects of Stress on Intraocular Pressure and Lacrimal Secretion

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of psychosocial stress on intraocular pressure and lacrimal secretion. METHODS: Twenty normal adult volunteers (40 eyes) who had no history of systemic or ocular disease such as dry eye syndrome or glaucoma were recruited from clinical research participants. Heart rate, intraocular pressure and lacrimal secretion were measured after the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) which induces psychosocial stress. The same measurements were taken 1 week later and the recorded measurements were considered as the control group. RESULTS: Heart rate was elevated significantly after the TSST, indicating psychosocial stress was induced by the TSST. Compared to stress resolution status, intraocular pressure and lacrimal secretion were increased after the TSST (p = 0.027, p = 0.011). Elevation of intraocular pressure and lacrimal secretion was statistically significant in males (p = 0.031, p = 0.007), but not significant in females (p = 0.336, p = 0.554). CONCLUSIONS: Psychosocial stress can increase intraocular pressure and lacrimal secretion.