Overview
Glaucoma is a group of progressive eye diseases characterized by damage to the optic nerve, which can lead to irreversible blindness. It is one of the most common eye diseases and usually results from increased pressure within the eye. This increased pressure may be caused by a blocked drainage channel or excessive fluid production in the eye. Other causes include blunt or chemical injuries, severe infections, and inflammatory conditions.
Symptoms of glaucoma often include a gradual loss of peripheral vision, followed by central vision loss. The onset of symptoms is usually so gradual that they may go unnoticed in the early stages.
Conventional medical treatments for glaucoma focus on lowering intraocular pressure (IOP). While this can slow or halt the progression of optic nerve damage, any existing damage is irreversible. Alongside conventional approaches, integrating practices like detoxification of body can support overall eye health and potentially enhance treatment outcomes. Although there is no cure for glaucoma, early intervention can prevent further vision loss and help protect your sight.
What Is Glaucoma?
The term “glaucoma” encompasses a variety of eye conditions that involve damage to the optic nerve, often linked to a buildup of pressure inside the eye. This pressure, called intraocular pressure (IOP), can gradually damage the optic nerve, which transmits visual information to the brain. If untreated, this damage can lead to permanent vision loss or total blindness. Glaucoma is often hereditary, with the risk increasing in families with a history of the disease.
Causes of Glaucoma
The primary cause of glaucoma is an abnormality in the eye’s drainage system, which prevents fluid from draining properly. Factors that increase the risk of glaucoma include:
- Age: Older individuals are more prone to developing glaucoma.
- Family History: Glaucoma often runs in families.
- Medical Conditions: Hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and ocular issues such as short-sightedness or long-sightedness can elevate the risk.
- Medications: Prolonged use of corticosteroids may increase susceptibility.
Types of Glaucoma
There are two main types of glaucoma:
- Open-Angle Glaucoma (OAG)
This is the most common type, where fluid fails to drain properly, leading to a chronic and progressive buildup of pressure. OAG is irreversible and can cause gradual vision loss. - Angle-Closure Glaucoma (ACG)
Also known as acute or narrow-angle glaucoma, this condition occurs when the drainage space between the iris and cornea narrows, leading to a rapid pressure increase. ACG is a medical emergency and, if left untreated, can result in blindness within days.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Common symptoms of glaucoma include:
- Seeing halos around lights
- Vision loss (peripheral or central)
- Eye redness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Eye pain
- Severe headaches
- Blurred vision during physical activity
- Gradual loss of side vision
In some cases, there are no early symptoms, and vision loss progresses gradually over time.
Ayurvedic Perspective on Glaucoma
In Ayurveda, glaucoma is correlated with conditions like Timira and Adhimantha, which involve progressive vision loss and may lead to blindness if untreated.
- Open-Angle Glaucoma and Timira
Timira refers to visual disturbances caused by impaired optic function. It begins with diminished vision and can progress to total blindness. - Angle-Closure Glaucoma and Adhimantha
Adhimantha is associated with inflammatory conditions that block drainage channels (Shroto-Sanga) in the eye, leading to increased intraocular pressure. This condition can cause eye pain, headaches, and vision deterioration. Adhimantha, like angle-closure glaucoma, can progress rapidly and has varying severity based on the dominant dosha:- Vata dominance: Vision loss may occur within 5–6 days.
- Pitta dominance: Vision loss can occur immediately.
- Kapha dominance: Vision loss may occur within 7 days.
Ayurvedic Treatment of Glaucoma
Ayurvedic treatment for glaucoma focuses on balancing the dominant dosha and involves both Shodhana (detoxification) and Shamana (pacification) therapies.
Panchakarma Therapies:
- Virechana (Purgation)
- Basti (Enema therapy)
- Shirovirechana (Nasal cleansing)
Shamana Procedures:
- Shirodhara (Oil pouring on the forehead)
- Mastishkya (Head massage)
- Pindi-Vidalaka (Herbal eye packs)
- Tarpana (Nourishing eye treatments)
- Aschyotana (Eye drops)
- Puta Paka (Medicinal eye washes)
- Marma Abhyanga (Therapeutic massage for vital points)
Supportive Therapies:
- Oral medications
- Pathya Ahara-Vihara (Diet and lifestyle modifications)
- Ritucharya (Seasonal regimen)
- Dinacharya (Daily regimen)
At Ketav’s Ayush Health Paradise, a holistic approach is adopted to manage glaucoma. We recommend:
- Yoga, Meditation, and Pranayama: To support overall eye health and reduce stress.
- Ayurvedic Diet: Customized food plans to strengthen vision and slow disease progression.
We suggest a 21-day Panchakarma therapy program to manage glaucoma effectively and rejuvenate the eyes.
By integrating modern diagnostics with ancient Ayurvedic wisdom, we aim to provide comprehensive care for glaucoma, ensuring better eye health and quality of life.