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.

Chronic cases of glaucoma usually affect both eyes and have less noticeable symptoms.  Vision changes begin with peripheral blurring and blank spots.  Other symptoms are recurring headaches, sore eyes and frequent eyeglass prescription changes.  It usually affects people over the age of 65.  It results from waste accumulation in the eye, damage from previous eye problems like cataracts or the use of medications for high blood pressure and depression.  Cortisone use can also lead to glaucoma.  Vision will never return to normal once damage has occurred.

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. 

The following list of supplements can be used for glaucoma.  Adult doses are given.  (CLICK SUPPLEMENT NAME FOR PRODUCTS).