Managing Eye Issues with Ayurvedic Medicine for Glaucoma

Glaucoma has been the key cause of blindness and is irreversible. In 2020, around 64.3 million people were affected by Glaucoma globally, which increased to 76 million in 2020 and is expected to reach 111.8 million by 2040. The consistent increase in the number of Glaucoma patients in India and worldwide is on the rise and needs to be checked, but putting a check on Glaucoma could be achieved by Ayurvedic medicine for Glaucoma.

Tarpana and Ashchyotana symbolize potent ocular administration techniques utilized within Ayurveda to ensure efficient topical application and desired healing outcomes of medications. Ayurvedic experts operate Tarpana and Ashchyotana (eye drops) in glaucoma management, with anecdotal reports of positive results.

Why is Glaucoma termed “the silent thief of sight”?

Late diagnosis and ineffective treatment are the foremost causes of blindness in Glaucoma. Although cured, its progression can be stopped, and in most circumstances, sight can be preserved if detected earlier. This underscores the critical role of regular eye check-ups in maintaining vision health.

One of the biggest challenges when diagnosing Glaucoma in its most premature stages is the considerable variation in the formation of the optic disc and peripapillary region seen in normal eyes. The optic disc denotes the optic nerve’s beginning, and this is where the axons of retinal ganglion cells come concurrently. Some irregular optic discs can be demanding or unimaginable in distinguishing them from glaucomatous discs.

Eyes with such optic discs may have abnormal visual-field spotting and are often confused with glaucomatous field defects. The same is true for the retinal nerve fibre layer, and macular ganglion cell complex—abnormal structural characteristics can complicate our ability to distinguish between glaucomatous and normal eyes accurately.

Open-angle glaucoma

Open-angle glaucoma impacts up to 90% of the population. It happens when the drainage angle of your eye cannot manufacture a fluid that flows through the eye and generates the eye pressure to rise gradually.

As the name suggests, the drainage angle seems open and regular, but the fluid does not exhaust properly. This type of glaucoma grows slowly and painlessly, and you may not witness any signs until you have notable vision loss. Hence, regular eye exams are essential to detect and treat glaucoma early.

Angle-closure glaucoma

Angle-closure glaucoma, though less common, is a mainly more severe type of glaucoma. This happens when the eye’s drainage angle becomes completely blocked, rapidly increasing eye pressure. Moreover, it can occur when the pupil widens too fast, such as in dim light or when certain medicines are taken. The blockage of the drainage angle prevents fluid from exiting the eye, causing a range of severe signs, including eye pain, headache, nausea, blurred vision, and noticing halos around lights. In such scenarios, immediate use is essential to avert permanent vision loss, making this type of glaucoma a medical emergency.

How does glaucoma impact your eyes?

Glaucoma exercises its effects by causing damage to the optic nerve, consequently reducing your field of vision. This field directs to the area visible around you without the need to move your eyes or head. Normally, glaucoma initially targets your peripheral vision, leading to possible loss of sight on the sides. Initially, this may go overlooked as your central vision, vital for tasks like reading and remembering faces, stays unaffected. However, as the condition advances, central vision may also be lost, potentially resulting in blindness. Additionally, glaucoma can change the formation of the eyes. Some people may encounter redness, swelling, or cloudiness in their eyes. You should definitely contact an eye health expert or opt for an Ayurvedic expert who could suggest ayurvedic medicine for eye nerves.

Important Note :

Have regular eye exams. Going for a regular eye exam is the best way to detect glaucoma early, before it can induce vision loss. An eye health expert suggests a dilated eye exam at least once a year or more often if you are at a higher risk of glaucoma. This risk is higher in people older than 40, who have a family history of glaucoma, or who have diabetes.

Monitor your eye pressure. Monitor eye pressure, which should be maintained between 10 and 21 mmHg. There may be instances when people will have glaucoma even with normal eye pressure, and some people may not have glaucoma even with high eye pressure. The doctor must determine the target eye pressure based on your eye condition and other factors. You should monitor your eye pressure regularly and follow your eye doctor’s advice to keep it within the target range.

How can you keep a check on Glaucoma development?

Ayurveda, the age-old Indian system of medicine, suggests holistic techniques for managing different health ailments, including glaucoma. Here are some Ayurvedic methods and treatments that may aid protection against glaucoma:

Dietary Modifications: Ayurveda stresses the significance of a balanced diet for overall health. Meals rich in antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, can help protect against oxidative stress, which is believed to play a major role in glaucoma development.

Herbal Remedies: Ayurvedic herbs like Triphala, Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Ginkgo biloba, and Amla (Indian gooseberry) are often advised for eye health. These herbs have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help safeguard the eyes from injury.

Eye Exercises: Ayurveda also suggests specific eye exercises called “eye yoga” or “eye palming” to improve eye circulation and relieve strain. These exercises may help maintain eye health and reduce the risk of conditions like glaucoma.

Nasya Therapy: Nasya involves administering herbal oils or medicated substances through passages. In Ayurveda, nasya therapy is sometimes recommended for eye disorders to promote nasal and ocular circulation.

Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate eye conditions like glaucoma. Ayurveda emphasizes stress reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises to promote overall well-being, which may indirectly benefit eye health.

Consultation with an Ayurvedic Practitioner: It’s essential to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or an ophthalmologist at Dr Basu Eye Hospital. The hospital is skilled in treating various eye disorders, such as cataracts, immature cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, etc. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your constitution (dosha), overall health status, and the severity of your condition. If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma or any other eye condition, following your ophthalmologist’s recommendations and attending regular check-ups to monitor your eye health is crucial.

Two Major Types of Glaucoma as per Ayurveda

Vataja Adhimanta:

Vataja Adhimanta emerges from the imbalanced state of Vata Dosha, which is accountable for bodily movement and dryness. This imbalance affects the nerves, muscles, and bones of the eyes, leading to their weakening and increased fragility. Symptoms associated with Vataja Adhimanta include:

Dryness and roughness of the eyes
Tinnitus or noise in the ears
Pain experienced in the eyebrows, forehead, and other related areas
The presence of debris and congested tissue in the eyes
Loss of peripheral vision or tunnel vision

Pittaja Adhimanta:

Pittaja Adhimanta stems from the aggravation of Pitta Dosha, which controls heat and metabolic procedures within the body. This imbalance manifests in symptoms such as: