Glaucoma
Updated Dec. 27th, 2017
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in North America. It is characterized by a rise in the pressure inside the eyeball. The pressure causes a compression of the optic nerve and permanent vision changes result. If it happens acutely there are usually severe symptoms. These symptoms include blurred vision with coloured halos, severe headache, nausea, vomiting, throbbing in one eye, redness in one eye and light sensitivity.
Attacks can be triggered by stress or dilation of the pupil for long periods of time. The cause of acute glaucoma is a build up of fluid in the eye. Fluid build up occurs because of poor drainage or an increase in production.
Vision changes caused by glaucoma generally present initially as blank spots and peripheral blurring. Chronic glaucoma usually will affect both eyes and affect people over the age of 65. Some of the common symptoms in addition to the previously mentioned include sore eyes, recurring headaches, and an increase in frequency of eye glass prescription changes. Some of the causes of glaucoma include damage from previous eye problems, waste accumulation in the eye, cortisone use and medications that are used for high blood pressure and depression. Once the eye is damaged from glaucoma, vision will not return to normal and the damage is permanent.
Chronic glaucoma is conventionally treated with eyedrops to decrease intraocular pressure. Side effects vary depending on the type of medication that is prescribed. Most acute and some chronic cases of glaucoma may be treated with surgery.
Unfortunately surgery has a variable success rate. Natural therapies can help to moderate intraocular pressure but acute attacks are a medical emergency and should be dealt with in a hospital setting.
To help glaucoma, include regular aerobic exercise in your daily routine. It has been shown to decrease intraocular pressure for as long as the regimen is performed. Avoid stress and prolonged straining of the eyes.
Avoid smoky environments. Have regular eye screenings and do not change your glaucoma medication without consulting your ophthalmologist.
Dietary changes for glaucoma involve identifying and avoiding food allergens. They cause a build up of fluid in the body. Avoid all caffeine sources including coffee, chocolate and soft drinks. Also avoid alcohol, stimulants (including ephedra and licorice) and salt. Drink lots of filtered water in small amounts, throughout the day. Eat foods that are high in vitamin C, bioflavinoids, vitamin A and B vitamins. Some of these foods are sesame seeds, citrus fruits, carrots, beets, beet greens, spinach, broccoli, celery, blueberries, cherries and whole grains.
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Good comprehensive article. My Father had glaucoma so I started getting tested for it in my late 20's. I went to the optician every 2 years to get my eyes checked and asked for the glaucoma test. Please note that this test is not included in your regular eye exam - you must ask for it & pay extra. It's worth it. In my 50's they discovered very high eye pressure. I experience all of the above symptoms mentioned as well as swollen eyeballs (sounds strange I know), swollen skin around the eyes, dry eye and strange auras. These can be helped with ice and over-the-counter eye drops. Do not put your head below your heart i.e. downward dog, headstand, gardening, etc. as the pressure will build in the eye. You have to change the way you do some things, keep exercising and rest your eyes when in pain. Keep away from blue light - computer & electronics, when possible.
I LOVE National Nutrition's Magnesium (superior product) & take it daily along with bilberry, Vitamin C, a one-a-day vitamin and greens. I eat blueberries & colourful veg everyday. Hope some of this was helpful.
Hello Jean,
Thank you for your wonderful comment & sharing your experience and protocol. Great points, it's important to be proactive with eye health by taking supplements that support, resting your eyes from strain and technology and getting them checked regularly. We're glad you've enjoyed our article and if you'd like to learn more about each supplement you take, check out our supplement articles as well:
https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/supplements/
Have a healthy day!
Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that damages the optic nerve, leading to vision loss and potentially blindness if left untreated. This article provides valuable insights into the causes, symptoms, and potential complications of glaucoma. It emphasizes the importance of regular eye examinations, as early detection plays a crucial role in managing the condition effectively. The article highlights various treatment options, including medication, laser therapy, and surgery, which can help control intraocular pressure and slow down the progression of glaucoma. It also stresses the significance of lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding tobacco and managing systemic health conditions, in preventing or reducing the risk of developing glaucoma.
Hello, Nathaniel,
Regular eye exams are very important both for your eye and vision health and overall health. There are many natural supplements available for both prevention and and eye health support. If you'd like to learn more on this topic, check out this video of ours too: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuzqVg2Gkag
Stay healthy & well.