2M.D. Asistant, Kayseri Training and Rsearch Hospital, Eye Clinic, Kayseri/TURKEY Purpose: To evaluate the effect of fasting and dehydration during Ramadan on intraocular pressure and anterior segment parameters.
Materials and Methods: Thirty eyes of 30 healthy individuals were recruited in the study. The values of anterior segment parameters and IOP were determined with Pentacam Scheimpflug imaging system (Oculus, Germany) and Goldmann applanation tonometry at 08.00 ve 16.00 hours before month of Ramadan. All measurements were repeated at the same time points while individuals were fasting.
Results: A statistically significant decrease was found in IOP during Ramadan fasting when compared at the same time points before Ramadan (08.00; p=0.036 and 16.00; p=0.045). However, the anterior segment parameters were not found statistically significant at any time points or periods (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Our study revealed that IOP decreases during Ramadan fasting whereas anterior segment parameters are not affected. We believe that these changes in IOP should be taken into consideration in clinical follow-ups and treatments.
Keywords : Ramadan fasting, intraocular pressure, anterior segment parameters, pentacam