Wedge pillows

[bluemondaytoday]

Hi, I have glaucoma and I've heard that using a wedge pillow whilst sleeping can help to keep eye pressure a bit lower than just by sleeping on a normal pillow.Does anybody have any experience of using a wedge pillow and did it help and are they comfortable to sleep on please?

Any recommendations where to buy them from?

They seem to be quite expensive so don't want to waste money on something that might not really be needed!! Many thanks.

[Justinerose]

I just use three pillows to sleep on

[bronigel]

I bought a wedge pillow from a recommendation on this group, but unfortunately I just couldn’t get used to it. I must have another attempt with it!

[sheelc]

Hi, I have had a wedge pillow for about a year which I bought from British company, Putnams. It's a foam and latex 6"pillow wedge which elevates my spine from my lower back, and yes, it was a bit expensive. I got used to using it after a few days. I did also buy a wool wedge pillow but found that a bit too warm. One extra benefit for me is that is has also helped with neck pain. My reason for purchase was, following much research, it was advised that this can help keep IOP slightly lower at night. It works for me, comfort wise, but whether anyone can be sure it's working to keep IOP in check is another matter but it's a step I'm willing to take at the moment.

[broboy]

Yes,there have been studies which shows pressures can be improved by keeping your head elevated in bed.I have just ordered one, they do not cost much.

if you do not want to buy one, just use two or three pillows, it will have the same effect

[Ticketybo]

I have used a wedge pillow for several months now and find it comfortable. I have to add a thin pillow on top as my neck is not supported enough otherwise. The elevated position has also helped relieve reflux.

[Sorshup]

I suggest everyone delves the internet for scholarly work on this. As I understand it a wedge pillow is inappropriate; it can even do damage through the distortion of the blood supply in the neck. What has been found to be helpful is to elevate the upper half of the body altogether, by about 30 degrees, from the lower back. Normal mattress and light pillow but on a plank tilting upwards. But unless you can buy, hire or borrow from your hospital an iCare Home tonometer to play with during a few days and nights to monitor your IOP variation you won't know if there is a benefit to be had !

[valfrance]

I just put wood under the feet of the bed..found wedge pillows uncomfortable