Glaucoma – A Serious Eye Condition

Glaucoma – A Serious Eye Condition

Intraocular pressure increases within the eyeball as a result of glaucoma, a serious condition of the eyes. The condition is similar to high blood pressure in the body. Therefore, hypertension of the eye is the name given to this condition. Intraocular pressure is necessary to prevent eye damage, but too much can result in vision loss. Blindness among adults is primarily caused by glaucoma. Blind people are more likely to suffer from glaucoma than those who aren’t. The disease is more likely to be developed by farsighted people than by nearsighted people.

Symptoms

Glaucoma appears as colored rings or halos around distant objects at night, as the first symptom of the disease. Usually, the iris is protruding forward, and the patient suffers constant pain near the temples and cheeks as well as the brow. Most people experience headaches at some point in their lives. Glaucoma gradually impairs vision as it develops, and if it is not treated in time, it may eventually result in blindness.

Causes

As a result of severe eye strain or prolonged exposure to poor lighting conditions, glaucoma is considered to be one of the most common causes of blindness. Yet, in reality, glaucoma is primarily caused by vitamin deficiencies, poor lifestyle choices, and prolonged drug use to treat other diseases that is highly toxic to the system. Only eye strain contributes to this condition. Chronic stress can also lead to glaucoma, which is usually a result of adrenal exhaustion.

As a result of the adrenal glands’ incapacity to produce aldosterone, the body loses salt excessively and fluid accumulates in the tissues. Eyeballs harden when excess fluid accumulates in the region, causing them to lose their softness and resilience. As well as those described above, glaucoma is associated with giddiness, sinusitis, allergies, diabetes, hypoglycemia, arteriosclerosis, and a malfunctioning of the autonomic nervous system.

Treatment

Modern medical treatments for glaucoma involve surgery, which relieves the internal pressure in the eye caused by excessive fluid. Excess fluid, however, cannot be eliminated by this method. Therefore, no guarantee can be given that the trouble will not return, or that it will not affect the other eye even after the operation. Glaucoma can be treated naturally as any other condition associated with high toxicity, with the goal of preserving what vision remains. The results are encouraging if treated in the early stages.

Even though some cases of advanced glaucoma may not be cured, certain nutritional and other biological approaches may be able to help control the disease and preserve sight. Glaucoma patients should avoid certain foodstuffs scrupulously. Caffeine-containing beverages, such as coffee, should be avoided completely. When caffeine is consumed, vasoconstrictors are stimulated, resulting in elevated blood pressure and increased blood flow to the eye.

Tobacco and beer, which can cause blood vessels to constrict, should also be avoided. The consumption of tea should be moderate. Fluids, such as juice, milk, and water, should not be consumed excessively by the patient. There should be an interval of at least an hour between each small amount he drinks. Foods high in vitamin C, fresh fruits, and vegetables should be emphasized in the diet of patients suffering from glaucoma.

Fruits in season, such as oranges and grapes, and a handful of raw nuts and seeds, may be included in breakfast. Several whole wheat chappatis and a glass of buttermilk may be served for lunch with a raw vegetable salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. Cottage cheese, butter, and steamed vegetables may be served for dinner. Treatment of glaucoma can be improved with certain nutrients. Patients with glaucoma are usually deficient in vitamins A, B, and C, protein, and calcium.

Several nutrients, such as calcium and the B complex, have been shown to alleviate intraocular conditions. The use of vitamin C therapy in glaucoma is commonly believed to lower intraocular pressure. In a recent meeting of the Roman Ophthalmological Society in Rome, Italy, Dr. Michele Virno and his colleagues found that people weighing 150 pounds who were given 7000 mg. five times daily acquired acceptable intraocular pressure within 45 days.

It is likely that the large doses of vitamin C caused temporary stomach discomfort and diarrhea, which quickly subsided. Taking calcium with ascorbic acid has also been suggested as a way to minimize any side effects associated with the large dose.

Various methods should be used to relax and strengthen the eyes of the patient. In order to avoid emotional stress, he should follow a tranquil, restful lifestyle. A person should also avoid prolonged strain on the eyes, such as during excessive time spent in front of the television or excessive movie viewing. It is not recommended to wear sunglasses.