Playing Bagpipes Increases Risk of Blindness

Playing bagpipes increases the risk of eye disorders which may lead to blindness.

Playing bagpipes increases the risk of eye disorders which may lead to blindness, says a recent study by the Glasgow Caledonian University.

While playing the traditional Scots instrument musicians put their eyeballs under pressure while blowing too hard. The stress on the optic nerves can lead to glaucoma in later life.

Glaucoma - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Prevention
Glaucoma is a group of disorders involving the optic nerve, often associated with a rise in intraocular pressure. Uncontrolled glaucoma can lead to blindness.

Lead author of the study, Dr. Gunnar Schmidtmann said that bagpiper player who already had high blood pressure were at an increased risk. He said, "It doesn't matter if you are a hobby musician or a professional, go to your optometrist frequently."

Source-Medindia

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