Glaucoma is characterized by increased intra-ocular pressure, i.e. increased pressure within the eye; which occurs due to an increased production, as compared to the outflow of the aqueous humor, the fluid within the eye.
What is Glaucoma?
The early stages of the disease may be asymptomatic, thus, regular eye check ups are important, especially after the age of 60 years.
The manifestations depend on whether the glaucoma is acute or chronic. Glaucoma is associated with several symptoms which are attributed to the severity and the nature of Glaucoma. As the disease progresses, in chronic glaucoma, there occurs gradual loss of peripheral vision, thereby, resulting in ‘tunnel vision’.
Acute glaucoma presents as excessive eye pain, blurring of the vision, reddening of the eye and a fixed and dilated pupil. Acute glaucoma is considered a medical emergency. If neglected or left untreated, for 12 to 48 hours, it could result in permanent blindness.
Causes of Glaucoma : Risk Factors for Glaucoma
The cause of glaucoma is an abnormality in the composition of the supportive structures of the eye, particularly, structural changes taking place due to poor collagen integrity. These changes obstruct the flow of the aqueous humor, and consequently cause increased intra-ocular pressure, triggering glaucoma. Aging and certain medications like corticosteroids set off these changes.
A patient of glaucoma ought to stay away from corticosteroids. These tend to weaken collagen structures throughout the body, including the eyes. The use of corticosteroids is a major risk factor for glaucoma.
Diagnosing Glaucoma: Glaucoma Presentation
The normal IOP or intra-ocular pressure is 10 to 21 mm Hg. In chronic glaucoma, IOP rises to 22 to 40 mm Hg, while in acute glaucoma, the IOP is greater than 40 mm Hg.
It is vital to have the eyes examined regularly. Eyes ought to be tested:
- Every 2 to 4 years, before the age of 40 years
- Every 1 to 3 years, between the years 40 to 54
- Every 1 to 2 years between ages 55 to 64 years
- Every 6 to 12 months, after 65 years
The regular glaucoma tests comprise of two routine eye examinations: Tonometry and Ophthalmoscopy.
Diet to Prevent Glaucoma: Beneficial Foods for Treating Glacuoma Symptoms
The following foods and dietary prescriptions are advocated to keep eyes healthy, check the occurrence of glaucoma and prevent a deterioration of the condition:
- To effectively manage chronic glaucoma, foods that are rich in vitamin C ( bell peppers, limes, lemons, mangoes, cherries, gooseberries, strawberries, oranges, kiwis, apples, etc.), and flavanoids (berries, cherries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, bell peppers, green leafy vegetables, etc.) are recommended. These foods prevent oxidative damage to the connective tissue.
- Cold water fish like mackerel, salmon, and herring are also advocated. These are loaded with omega 3 fatty acids; and research says, omega 3 fatty acids help diminish IOP.
- Also, certain specific food allergens are known to activate glaucoma. Chronic glaucoma can be handled effectively by eliminating food allergens from the diet.
Thus, early detection, via complete and regular eye examinations and following a wholesome diet, is the only solution to protecting vision from damage by glaucoma.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Reference:
Optometry, Nutritional Influences on Eye Health, Richer, S., 2000.
Shweta Shah - A practicing homeopath using aromatherapy, yoga, acupressure and diet in patient management
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