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Progression of glaucoma associated with the Sirsasana (headstand) yoga posture

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Abstract

This article reports a case of progressive glaucomatous optic neuropathy and visual field loss that occurred in a patient who practiced the Sirsasana (headstand) yoga posture on a daily basis for many years. Visual field analysis was performed through standard automated perimetry. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured through pneumotonometry in the sitting position and in the head-down position. Stereo-optic disc photographs were obtained. IOP increased significantly in the head-down position. Optic disc evaluation revealed a new disc hemorrhage in the left eye. Visual field analysis over a period of 2 y showed progression of a superior arcuate defect in the left eye. Transient increases in IOP associated with the yoga headstand posture may lead to progressive glaucomatous optic nerve damage and visual field loss.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas, Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., 75390, Dallas, TX

    Mark J. Gallardo MD (Assist Instructor), Nalini Aggarwal MD (Assist Instructor), H. Dwight Cavanagh MD, PhD (Prof) & Jess T. Whitson MD, FACS (Assoc Prof)

Authors
  1. Mark J. Gallardo MD
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  2. Nalini Aggarwal MD
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  3. H. Dwight Cavanagh MD, PhD
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  4. Jess T. Whitson MD, FACS
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Gallardo, M.J., Aggarwal, N., Cavanagh, H.D. et al. Progression of glaucoma associated with the Sirsasana (headstand) yoga posture. Adv Therapy 23, 921–925 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02850214

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02850214

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