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Understanding Glaucoma: Unveiling Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Ayurvedic Treatment at AVCRI | Since 1957


Glaucoma - symptoms and signs and treatment with Ayurveda

Glaucoma - symptoms and signs and treatment with Ayurveda


What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is indeed a serious eye condition characterized by damage to the optic nerve, often associated with increased intraocular pressure (IOP).

Glaucoma is one of the insidious diseases of the eyes, affecting millions worldwide, including those with congenital glaucoma.  It can progress unnoticed for years, causing irreversible damage to vision before any symptoms become apparent. Lack of treatment can lead to irreversible damage and even blindness, particularly in cases of acute angle-closure glaucoma.


Glaucoma in the concept of Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, glaucoma may be compared to Adhimantha, a disease of the eyes that involves the vitiation of all Doshas, with Pitta and Rakta as dominant. 


Symptoms of Glaucoma, like 

·        The person can start seeing "halos " around the sources of light

·        He may get the peripheral vision heavily restricted, narrowing the visual field, which is a common symptom for people with glaucoma. 

·        Headache or pain in the eyes, etc. 

·        blurred vision

·        excessive tearing

·        nausea

·        dizziness


Symptoms according to Ayurveda

heaviness of the head, watering, itching, and pain in the eyes, which reflects the nature of the disease glaucoma.


Cause of glaucoma

Adhimantha is caused by improper management or neglect of the disease Abhishyanda, which may be compared with ocular inflammation. This inflammation is due to the accumulation of Ama (toxins) in the body, which obstructs the channels of the eyes. The pressure of the eyes increases if Abhishyanda is not managed, and damages the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting the images that you see to your brain. If left untreated, Adhimantha can lead to blindness.

1.    Vata Dosha Imbalance: This leads to poor circulation and movement of fluids within the eye, potentially increasing intraocular pressure, which can treat glaucoma if addressed early.

2.    Pitta Dosha Imbalance: Causes inflammation and heat, which can exacerbate eye conditions and contribute to symptoms like halos.

3.    Kapha Dosha Imbalance: Can cause congestion and fluid retention, affecting the intraocular fluid drainage

Glaucoma is caused by elevated intraocular pressure resulting from the buildup and retention of aqueous humor. This is why Ayurveda links it to an imbalance in Kapha, the Dosha that governs fluid regulation in the body. The heightened pressure within the eye leads to undue stress on the optic nerve, ultimately causing atrophy.

In glaucoma, the balance between the production and drainage of the aqueous humor, the fluid inside the eye, is disrupted leading to increased intraocular pressure. This occurs due to either overproduction of fluid or blockage of the drainage system.

 

Risk groups of Glaucoma

· Heredity - people who have a blood relative with the disease

· Previously measured high intraocular pressure

·        eye conditions like myopia. thin central corneal thickness, surgeries, ocular hypertension, farsightedness

·        Medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension cardiovascular diseases 

·        Long-term use of corticosteroids can increase the risk of glaucoma, making regular monitoring essential.

·        Age -old age

·        Smoking, low bp 

·        Gender- women


Diagnosis of glaucoma

Medical history

Visual acuity tests

Tonometry and assessments to evaluate intraocular pressure, optic nerve health, and visual field changes.


Traditional treatment in Ayurveda for Glaucoma

The procedures on the one hand are to normalize the intraocular pressure and improve vision, and on the other hand - affect the overall relaxation of the autonomic nervous system, nourishment and tissue repair.


Nethra tarpanam

Netra Tarpana Netra Tarpana is a specialized eye therapy that involves pouring medicated ghee over the eyes and retaining it for a specific period of time. Netra Tarpana nourishes and lubricates the eyes reduces eye pressure and pain, and improves vision. Netra Tarpana is done by creating a dough ring around the eyes and filling it with warm ghee. The ghee is changed periodically and the procedure is repeated for several days. 


Anjana

Anjana is the application of medicated collyrium to the eyes, which may assist in treating glaucoma symptoms. Anjana protects and heals the eyes, prevents the recurrence of glaucoma, and improves vision. Anjana is done by using a special instrument called Shalaka, which is a thin rod with two tapered ends. The collyrium or is placed on the edges of the rods and applied to the eyes. 


Seka /Nethra dhara

Seka is a therapy that involves pouring medicated liquid over the eyes from a specific height. Netra Seka cleanses and soothes the eyes, removes impurities and infections, and enhances the function of the eyes


The patient is asked to lie down on the Shirodhara massage bed with their eyes covered and closed. A metal or clay vessel is suspended directly above the forehead and the Shirodhara process starts with the pouring of herbal oils or specially mediated liquids in a steady stream onto the forehead in a gentle manner. It is often paired with a head and body massage performed alongside Shirodhara. After the treatment is over, the patient can rest for a few minutes,

followed by a hot water bath with special medicated water used for the head. It can help to relax and reduce the IOP


Pratimarsa Nasyam

 pouring of healing oils in the nostrils, as the goal is to release Kapha toxins through nasal secretion. In addition to contributing to detoxification, it nourishes the brain cells; and applies both to eye diseases and to problems with the sense of smell, taste, ears, voice, and many others. Nasal administration of medicated oils to balance the doshas and improve eye health.

Vamana -induced healing vomiting. The effect is cleansing from the toxins, formed because of the Kapha imbalance, elimination of mucus, and soothing Kapha.

Ayurveda also uses herbal decoctions, which, in addition to internal consumption, are used for rinsing in eye diseases.


Ayurvedic diet for glaucoma


- Foods should be dry, light, and enjoyed warm, with an abundance of spices. They ought to be non-greasy, with preferred flavors being spicy, astringent, and bitter. Sweet, sour, and salty flavors are discouraged as they can aggravate Kapha.- Beneficial foods consist of rye, barley, and millet, while rice, wheat, oats, soy, and beans should be avoided. Recommended vegetables include eggplants, turnips, red beets, peppers, spinach, carrots, peas, and onions.- Foods to steer clear of include potatoes, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, okra, and olives.- Fruits that promote Kapha balance are primarily astringent varieties, such as pears, apples, peaches, apricots, blueberries, and dried fruits.

 


- However, it is advisable to steer clear of juicy fruits such as watermelons, melons, pineapples, oranges, avocados, grapes, kiwis, and figs.- Amla juice possesses strong antioxidant and antibacterial properties; it aids in neutralizing free radicals, enhances the health of retinal cells, and stimulates capillaries, making it beneficial for eye issues, including glaucoma.- In addition to physical factors, emotional and mental barriers also contribute to the development of glaucoma.- Maintain a well-rounded diet that is high in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin C.- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fluids like coconut water, buttermilk, or herbal teas. This assists in eliminating toxins, hydrating the eyes, and lowering eye pressure.- Limit prolonged exposure to sunlight, dust, smoke, or pollution, as these can cause irritation and harm to your eyes.- Ensure you get adequate sleep and allow your eyes to rest. Aiming for 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night helps rejuvenate your eyes and may prevent the advancement of glaucoma.


What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can damage the optic nerve and result in vision loss. It is often caused by high eye pressure.


What are the common symptoms of glaucoma?

Common symptoms of glaucoma include eye pain, blurred vision, seeing halos around lights, and gradual loss of peripheral vision.


How is glaucoma diagnosed?

Glaucoma is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam which may include measuring eye pressure, examining the optic nerve, and testing the visual field.


What are the risk factors for glaucoma?

Risk factors for glaucoma include high eye pressure, family history of the disease, being over the age of 60, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes.


What are the treatment options for glaucoma?

Treatment for glaucoma may include eye drops to lower eye pressure, laser treatment, or surgery to improve fluid drainage in the eye.


Can glaucoma be cured?

While there is no cure for glaucoma, early detection and treatment can help slow down the progression of open-angle glaucoma and prevent vision loss.


What is minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)?

Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) is a group of surgical procedures that aim to reduce eye pressure and improve the management of glaucoma with minimal risks and faster recovery times compared to traditional surgery. 


What is glaucoma caused by?

The cause of glaucoma is an increase in the intraocular pressure due to accumulation and retention of aqueous fluid Can glaucoma be cured at the early stage?


Is glaucoma treatable if caught early?

Yes, if detected early.


Can pre-glaucoma be treated?

Yes, it can treated.


What are the first signs that glaucoma is developing?

Halos around the eyes


What are the primary causes of glaucoma?

Eye pressure is the primary cause.


Who usually gets glaucoma?

Aged persons Those who has a strong inheritance from family 


Can glaucoma cured?

Early treatment can prevent vision loss.


What activities should be avoided with glaucoma?

Avoid head-down positions, heavy exercise like weight lifting, wind instruments, etc 


Can I still work with glaucoma?

Yes, you can work avoiding strenuous work.


what is glaucoma treatment

In Ayurveda, we can undergo netrhra tarpanam, Nethra dhara, etc 


can vision loss from glaucoma be restored

No, so for there is no restoration technique derived for Vision loss due to glaucoma


can laser treatment cure glaucoma

No, but it can help to treat some types of glaucoma.  the procedure can help in lowering the pressure in the


does glaucoma surgery improve eyesight

It can help to prevent further vision loss and protect the remaining sight


can glaucoma go without treatment

No, Glaucoma won't go away on its own without any treatment.


is glaucoma treatment lifelong

yes, it's chronic and demands lifetime treatment.


when to start glaucoma treatment

as soon as glaucoma is detected treatment should be started, Visioon is a very important sensory part, Once you lose this very important organ all you see will be just pitch-black darkness.


how long does it take to go blind from glaucoma with treatment

It’s a slow progressive condition


Are Natural Ways to Cure Glaucoma Effective?

Yes of course there are natural ways in curing glaucoma effectively.


Are there activities that make glaucoma worse?

Weight lifting, headstand poses, etc 


Can I get eyelash extensions if I have glaucoma?

Yes you can unless they don’t irritate


Can I use glaucoma treatment eyedrops after my eyes are dilated?

Yes you can


How common is glaucoma?

About 1 in 200 with the age above 40


Is Glaucoma Hereditary?

Yes


What Is Angle-Closure Glaucoma?

It’s a condition that’s defined by high pressure in your eyes. It happens because aqueous humor (a fluid in your eye ) can't flow freely in your eye. In angle closure glaucoma, a bulging iris blocks the drainage system, The condition may happen quickly or over time 


What are the risk factors for glaucoma?

heredity, eye conditions like myopia. thin central corneal thickness, surgeries, ocular hypertension, and Medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension, Cardiovascular diseases, long-term use of corticosteroids, old age ,Smoking,low bp  and women


What are the complications of glaucoma?

Vision loss


Will my eye pressure go higher than it was before treatment if I stop taking my glaucoma medication?

There may be fluctuations in the eye pressure.So the medications must be consistent or practice dietary and lie style management strictly


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