Harmonica playing and eye pressure

[Smith101]

I know playing wind instruments that need a lot of 'puff ' can increase eye pressure .However I don't know if this applies to the harmonica? Does anyone know anything about this ?

[Beecalmed]

Hi Smith101!

To be honest I don’t know the answer. Have you discussed it with your Consultant? I’m sure they will be able to advise you and should be your first port of call.

My understanding is that anything that initiates breath holding or control may increase IOP. I guess the issue maybe: how often the harmonica is played and for how long; and how reactive your glaucoma is and whether it is currently under control or progressing may also have a bearing.

If playing the harmonica is how you make your living or something you enjoy doing a lot then I think only your consultant can advise the likely risk in your situation and your particular diagnosis.

I’d be interested to hear what your consultant says as my brother is a professional musician and plays clarinet and woodwind instruments. He hasn’t shown any signs of glaucoma but I’ve often wondered what the advice would be about playing woodwind if he did. We have glaucoma running through our family suggesting a genetic element.

[Cnut]

Hello. I am a woodwind teacher and had a trabeculectomy last October for help with my eye pressure . I too was anxious about how playing wind instruments would affect my life. I asked my consultant who reported that research suggested it was the pressure needed for playing brass instruments that could be a problem. However I know how much pressure I need to play loudly, especially in the upper register of my instruments so I have been rather cautious. I agree that asking your consultant is probably the best thing as they have knowledge of your eyes.

Best wishes.