Effects of water drinking on corneal biomechanics: The association with intraocular pressure changes

Abstract

Purpose: We aimed to assess the impact of drinking water (500 and 1000 mL) on corneal biomechanics and determine the level of association between changes in intraocular pressure and variations in the different biomechanical properties of the cornea. Methods: A total of 39 healthy young adults ingested either 1000 mL (n = 21) or 500 mL (n = 18) of tap water in 5 min. The CorVis ST system was used to assess corneal biomechanics at baseline and at 15, 30, and 45 min after water ingestion. Results: Water drinking induced statistically significant changes in the deformation amplitude (P < 0.001, η 2 = 0.166), highest concavity time (P = 0.012, η 2 = 0.093), peak distance (P < 0.001, η 2 = 0.171), time and velocity of the first applanation (P < 0.001, η 2 = 0.288 and P = 0.016, η 2 = 0.087, respectively), and time and velocity of the second applanation (P = 0.030, η 2 = 0.074 and P = 0.001, η 2 = 0.132, respectively), being independent of the amount of water ingested (P > 0.05 in all cases). There were significant associations between changes in intraocular pressure and some parameters of corneal biomechanics. Conclusion: Small variations in whole-body hydration status alter different biomechanical properties of the cornea, with these changes being associated with intraocular pressure levels. These findings indicate that whole-body hydration status can be considered for the diagnosis and management of different ocular conditions.