Homeopathy in the Treatment of Cataracts

Using Homeopathy to Treat Eye Strain

Why do My Eyes Feel so Dry?

Chelation Therapy and Macular Degeneration: Remove Toxic Metals and Improve Blood Flow The Eye

Cataracts: Alternative Treatments

Can Alternative Medicine Help in the Treatment of Glaucoma?

Homeopathy in the treatment of cataracts
By
Edward C. Kondrot, MD(H), CCH, RSHom

Homeopathy is scientific method of therapy based on the principle of stimulating the body's own healing processes in order to accomplish cure. The basic system was devised and verified by Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician, nearly 200 years ago. Homeopathy's astounding success rates in both chronic and acute diseases has resulted in not only standing the test of time, but also rapidly achieving widespread acceptance in Europe, India and South America.

In Homeopathy ("homeo-" means "similar"), each of us is a total and complete individual, no aspect of which can be separated from any other. To be effective, any valid therapy must be based on a deep understanding of and respect for the uniqueness of each individual. In Homeopathy each patient is evaluated as a whole person- mental, emotional and physical. The prescribing remedy is based on the unique patterns found on all three levels. This means that each person is given a remedy that will stimulate his or her particular body to heal. Ten people with Cataracts might receive ten different homeopathic remedies.
Is homeopathy effective in the treatment of cataracts? A. B. Norton, MD reviewed his experience on this subject, which was published in North American Journal of Homeopathy. The Homeopathic Treatment of Incipient Senile Cataract, with Tabulated Results of One Hundred Cases was a convincing study to prove the validity of homeopathy. This study looked at the homeopathic treatment of cataracts in 295 Patients. 100 Patients were under treatment for longer then 3 months. Results: Improvement in 58% of cases, no change in 42%, Slight decrease in 26%, Significant decreases in 19%.

In regards to specific remedies, the following 3 remedies where used in 78% of all cases:

Causticum was used in 64/100 cases. Keynote symptoms are feeling of sand in the eye, sensation of pressure, heaviness of the eyelids. There is also burning and itching, desire to keep eyes closed, photophobia and flashes of light.

Calcaria phosphoricum was used in 15/100 cases. Symptoms are headaches especially of the right side and pain around the right eye. There is a tired feeling and stiffness around the eyes.

Sepia was used in 9/100 cases. Symptoms are a weak feeling in the eyes that are worse towards evening. Symptoms are better middle of the day. There are sharp pains in the eyes, heaviness of the lids and twitching of the lids. There is a strange symptom of smarting of the eyes relieved by eating.

The best way to treat your cataracts is to be examined by an experienced homeopathic practitioner- one who will not only be interested in your cataracts but who will treat you as a person carefully studying you mental, emotional and physical state before recommending a homeopathic remedy.

Dr. Edward Kondrot is a board-certified Ophthalmologist and certified homeopathic doctor. He is the author of Healing the Eye the Natural Way: Alternative Medicine and Macular Degeneration, and Microcurrent Stimulation: Miracle Eye Cure. His Healing the Eye and Wellness Centers are located in Phoenix, Arizona and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His web page is www.kondrot.com and he can be reached at 800-430-9328.
Listen to Dr. Kondrot’s radio show “Healthy Vision” every Monday at 11:00 AM on KFNX 1100 or listen on the Internet at www.nabcinc.com

[back to top]

Eyestrain is a common problem that everyone experiences. We strain our eyes using the computer, reading, watching TV and doing other demanding visual tasks. It is a wonder that many of us can still focus our eyes at the end of the day!
Symptoms of eyestrain are many; headache, blurred and double vision, watery eyes and an inability to focus are problems we all experience. What can be done? Homeopathy can help relieve the strain and get our eyes back in focus.
Homeopathy is scientific method of therapy based on the principle of stimulating the body’s own healing processes in order to accomplish cure. The basic system was devised and verified by Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician, nearly 200 years ago. Homeopathy’s astounding success rates in both chronic and acute diseases has not only stood the test of time, but has rapidly achieved widespread acceptance in Europe, India and South America.

In Homeopathy (“homeo-” means “similar”), each of us is a total complete individual, no aspect of which can be separated from any other. In Homeopathy each patient is evaluated as a whole person- mental, emotional and physical. The prescribing remedy is based on the unique patterns found on all three levels. This means that each person is given a remedy that will stimulate his or her particular body to heal. Ten people with eye- strain might receive ten different homeopathic remedies.

Some Common Homeopathic Remedies for Eye Strain
RUTA GRAVEOLENS: Ailments from straining especially from fine work Symptoms are worse during exertion of vision. There can be a feeling stiffness in the eye muscles.
NATRIUM MURIATICUM: There is a bruised and stiff sensation, which is worse while reading and exerting the vision. It is difficult to read and the letters can run together.
PHYSOSTIGMA: There is twitching of the muscles around the eye. There can also be difficulty focusing and irritability after using eyes. The pupils can sometimes appear very small from eyestrain.
ONOSMODIUM: There is a strained and tired feeling in eye muscles. There can also be a tense drawing pain over the eyes. This pain tends to be worse over the over left eye. Distances are difficult to judge.
Recommended dose is 6C every two hours during the eyestrain. As with all homeopathic remedies stop the medication when the symptoms improve or if any new symptoms develop.
In addition to eyestrain, Homeopathy can also be of value in the treatment of many eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration. It is best to see an experienced homeopathic practitioner for the evaluation of these conditions.
Edward C. Kondrot, MD

Why do my Eyes feel so dry?
Edward C. Kondrot, MD, CCH

Redness! Burning! Irritation! These words are enough to make your eyes water but you can't. The reason is dry eyes. This is a common ocular problem in the Southwest because of the low humidity which produces an extra demand on our tear glands to keep the eyes lubricated. Other symptoms of dry eyes are a sensation that something is in the eye or even severe pain. These symptoms tend to be worse in dry cool weather and worse during a windy day. Dry eyes can also be aggravated by pollution and underlying allergies. The eye discomfort is worse when reading and worse toward the end of the day.

There are 5 common causes of Dry Eyes:
1) Decrease in blinking. Blinking helps to spread tears across the surface of the eye and lubricate the surface. Any decrease in blinking will cause symptoms of dry eyes.

2) Aging. Tear production decreases with aging. The volume of tear production can be 60% less at age 65 than at age 18.

3) Environment. High altitudes; sunny, dry windy conditions; and the use of heaters, blowers and air conditioning increase tear evaporation and cause symptoms of dry eyes.

4) Contact lenses can dramatically increase tear evaporation. Dry eyes are the leading cause of contact lens discomfort.

5) Some medications decrease the body's ability to produce lubricating tears. These include decongestants, antihistamines, diuretics and many other allopathic medications.

Alternative medicine can help!

Deficiency of Vitamin A has been shown to contribute to dry eyes. The first line of treatment should be a healthy diet with fresh dark green leafy vegetables or supplemental vitamin A. I would recommend 10,000 Units of Vitamin A once a day. Vitamin A can be toxic to the liver so be sure to consult with your health care practitioner.

Primrose Oil 1000 mg twice a day can also be helpful. It is a source of essential fatty acids that aids in the production of several tear components.

A product that I recommend is the Dry Eye and Blepharitis Nutritional Formula sold by Nutritional Research. (www.nutritionalresearch.net or 1-877-341-2703) One packet everyday supplies essential vitamins and nutrients to relieve symptoms of dry eyes.

Artificial tears and lubricating eye drops are the second line of treatment. They can be used as often as every hour to help reduce the symptoms of dry eyes. There are many brands of artificial tears on the market. The best are those that are preservative free. A homeopathic artificial tear that I recommend is Similasan Eye Drops #1 one to two drops every hour as needed.

In addition begin eye compresses or soaks using Euphrasia or Eyebright Tea. Obtain some Euphrasia tea bags and soak them in hot water. Use a clean cloth and soak your eyes twice a day for 10 to 15 minutes. You can also drink the tea for some additional benefit! Similasan and Euphrasia can also be ordered from Nutritional Research.

Common homeopathic remedies for dry eyes. Suggested dosage is a 6 or 12C twice a day. As with all homeopathic remedies you should stop the medication when symptoms improve.

ACONTINUM NAPELLUS (Acon.)
Symptoms from an exposure to a cold dry wind. Dryness, burning, sensitiveness to air. Burning in the eyes especially worse in the evening.

ARSENICUM ALBUM (Ars-a)
Burning of the margins of the lid. Feeling of sand in the eyes in the evening. Pulsating and throbbing eye pain after midnight. Light sensitivity.

BELLADONNA (Bell.)- Feeling of heat in the eyes. Feeling as if the eyes are protruded. Severe throbbing pain in the eye and head, worse at night.

EUPRHASIA (Euphr.)- Eyes irritated, burning with acrid and profuse tearing. Light sensitivity with intense blinking.

PULSATILLA (Puls.)- Eyelids are stuck together by yellow discharge in the morning. Symptoms better in the cool open air.

MERCURIUS (Merc.)- Redness of eyes with thin and acrid tearing which is worse at night. Marked light sensitivity. Symptoms similar to Euphrasia but they are more marked and there is night time aggravation.

SULPHUR (Sulph.)- Watering in the morning followed by dryness. Redness of the eyes during the day. Redness and burning of the eyelids.

ZINC- Eyelids stick together in the morning. Eyes are painful in the evening with a sensation of sand in the eyes with frequent watering. Constant burning in the eyes with a feeling of dryness. Hot scalding tears.

In addition to dry eyes, Homeopathy can also be of value in the treatment of many eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration. It is best to see an experienced homeopathic practitioner for the evaluation of these conditions.

[back to top]

Chelation Therapy and Macular Degeneration: Remove Toxic Metals and Improve Blood Flow The Eye
Edward C. Kondrot, MD

In addition to vitamin and nutritional therapy, Homeopathy and Microcurrent therapy there is another treatment in the battle against macular degeneration- chelation therapy. Although you may not be familiar with chelation, doctors have been using it in this country since about 1950, following its development in Germany in 1938. This is a treatment normally used to treat lead poisoning and even venomous snakebites. It was found, in the early years of its use, that chelation improved the heart disease of those who underwent it for other purposes. This prompted a number of physicians to begin using it for this purpose since it is known to flush plaque and toxic metals from bloodstream. For many, many individuals it has been an alternative to heart or vascular surgery.

How is Chelation Administered?
A chelation treatment requires a visit to a doctor’s office where 3 grams of a synthetic amino acid EDTA (ethyl diamine tetra acetic acid) is infused into your veins through an IV. Chelation requires a course of treatment of several sessions per week for several weeks or months. ACAM (American College of Alternative Medicine) recommends that patients undergo 30 chelation treatments in order to obtain the optimum effect, and follow these with a maintenance dose once a month. Each session lasts two to three hours. The frequency of the treatments depends on the severity of the condition and the way that the body is handling the excretion of the minerals. During the course of treatment, the doctor will monitor the health of kidneys as well as other organs to ensure that no undue stress is placed on the body. There is almost no discomfort with chelation and the side effects, which are rare, are very minimal. Patients are instructed during this time in proper diet, stress management, and exercise regimens to support their overall recovery.
Chelation has been used very successfully to treat cardiovascular disease, diabetes, diabetic arterial disease, decreased mental functioning, intermittent claudication (leg pain on exercise), and a number of other conditions.

Chelation therapy and Macular Degeneration
Chelation has also been used to reverse macular degeneration since ARMD is caused, at least in part, by the blockage in the choroid capillaries, which deliver blood to the macula.
In 1994, the Journal of the Advancement of Medicine published a case where a 59-year old woman with ARMD used nutrition along with chelation for her condition. After undergoing the recommended series of chelation, her vision improved to 20/25 in one eye and 20/20 in the other. Her central vision was greatly enhanced. One year later, her vision improvement remained.
Dr. Merrill Lipton of Belton, Texas tells a compelling story of his experience with chelation and macular degeneration.

I was injured during World War II, at the age of twenty, by an explosion above my head. Large pieces of shrapnel lodged in my head, near my ear and behind my eye. This left me with increased pressure in my right eye, which resulted in glaucoma. Several years later, the same condition developed in my left eye. It was controlled with drops. In 1991, I thought I had cataracts. It turned out to be macular degeneration. I took forty chelation treatments and maintain follow-up treatments twice a month. My vision returned to 20/20 with correction, and my high blood pressure of twenty years’ standing was cured. A few years later, I had my cataract removed, and complications resulted in increased intra occular pressure again. Back on chelation, this problem resolved to the extent that, at seventy-five years of age, I read without glasses and drive.

How Chelation Works
The word “chelation” is taken from the Greek work chele, meaning claw. This describes the way the molecules of the chelating agent grab onto the molecules of heavy metal, such as lead, iron, and copper, in the body and moves them to the kidneys, via the bloodstream, for excretion. The process of chelation also binds calcium, which is known, when it is present in cells in excessive amounts, to interfere with arterial health. Calcium is responsible for the build-up of plaque that causes blockages in the blood vessels. None of the calcium chelated and released during chelation is the calcium from bones and teeth. Chelation lowers serum ionized calcium which decreases clotting, reduces spasm and softens "hardening" of the arteries. A further benefit to overall health is that EDTA reduces the LDL cholesterol (the so-called ‘bad’ cholesterol) content in the liver and the plaque formed in the arteries.

Despite its success, scientists do not know for certain how chelation works. One theory is that it reduces free radicals, which are the harmful by-products of metabolic processes. A related theory is that since heavy metals cause an increased production of free radicals, reducing them in the body reduces the numbers of free radicals. Yet another understanding of how chelation works focuses on the relationship between calcium and magnesium as intracellular and intercellular components. As excess calcium is bound in the bloodstream, the calcium/magnesium balance is favorably affected.

Cataracts: Alternative Treatments
Edward C. Kondrot, MD (H)

Cataracts: What are they?
Constantinus Africanus (AD 1018), a monk and an Arabic oculist introduced the term "cataract". He translated Arabic "suffusion" into Latin "cataracta," meaning, "something poured underneath something, the waterfall." It was felt that the clouding of vision was do to a film falling like water over the eye. Cataracts are not a film but are a clouding, hardness and loss of elasticity, which occur in the human lens. Cataracts are associated with general arteriosclerotic changes, diabetes, sun exposure, trauma and poor nutrition. It is a fact of life that the longer you live the greater your likelihood of developing a cataract. Over 50% of people over the age of 60 will develop cataracts.

Cataracts: What is the cause?

Aging
As a person ages changes in the protein of the lens develop. Oxidative reactions develop which form abnormal disulfide and other covalent linkages. This causes the lens fibers to lose their transparency.

Trauma
Penetrating trauma from injury or ocular surgery usually results in rapidly progressive cataract, with lens fiber swelling, fragmentation, and opacification. Concussive injuries can infrequently cause a rupture of the lens capsule with the development of a cataract or more commonly a contusion cataract forms in the anterior or posterior cortex. These traumatic cataracts may be transitory, or they can remain if the lens fibers are damaged sufficiently.

Radiation
Ionizing radiation has a very high cataract producing affect, and the lens is its most sensitive target within the adult eye. Its damage is dose related and cumulative. The sources of electromagnetic radiation energy most important in damage to the lens are ionizing radiation (x-rays, gamma rays, and neutrons), emission of infrared or ultraviolet rays from various hot bodies, and microwave.

Heavy metal poisoning
Copper, iron and mercury poisoning can lead to the development of cataracts. Copper deposition in Wilson's disease produces a characteristic sunflower cataract. In this inherited disease there is copper deposition in tissues, especially the liver, causing cirrhosis, and in the basal ganglia of the brain.

Metabolic disorders
Galactosemia and diabetes are two hereditary diseases, which are related to the development of cataracts. Galactosemia is an uncommon hereditary disease of the newborn producing bilateral cataracts, mental retardation and enlargement of the liver. In diabetes mellitus, the usual cataract in these patients does not differ from senile cataract but occurs 20 to 30 years earlier than in a non-diabetic.

Vitamin and mineral deficiency
Oxidative damage contributes to the decrease natural antioxidants in the lens, such as glutathione,  inositol, and ascorbic acid. Aging, diet, and other disease also play roles in deficiency of antioxidants.

Can cataracts be prevented?
Sunlight
UV and Blue Violet sunrays increase the risk of developing cataracts. There are over 951 different references to back up the claim that sun light is the primary cause of cataracts. . Studies have shown that people who spend a great deal of time outdoors are three times as likely to develop cataracts. A good pair of sunglasses which block 100% of UVA and UVB and block at least 85% of blue violet sun rays are essential to protect the eyes from the harmful effects of the sun. On sunny days a wide brim hat should also be worn.

Smoking
If you smoke please do everything possible to stop. Smoking tobacco, especially more than 20 cigarettes per day, increases the risk of cataracts by more than 2 times. The risk in ex-smokers is 50 percent higher compared to non-smokers. Each cigarette also robs the body of 25 mg of vitamin C. Smokers have an increase in lipids (both fat and cholesterol) which increase the risk of severe cardiovascular disease. These factors produce narrowing of the retina blood vessels that carry valuable nutrients to the eye.

Alcoholic Consumption
High intake of alcohol can more than doubles the risk of developing cataracts. More than 7 drinks per week will increase the risk, while moderate use does not seem to increase the risk.
Sugar and Cataracts

Diabetics develop cataracts at an earlier age than non- diabetics do. An accumulation of sorbitol and fructose in the lens can induce osmotic swelling of the lens, which will lead to the development of a cataract. A significant number of adults who develop cataracts have undiagnosed diabetes. If you have diabetes, every effort should be made to keep your blood sugar under control. There have been several studies to show that vitamin C can help reduce the level of sorbitol and reduce the incidence of cataract formation.

Vitamins and Nutrients
There have been many large-scale studies to show the effectiveness of vitamins on reducing the incidence of cataracts. A Canadian studied showed that patients over the age of 55 who consumed vitamin C and E supplements reduced their risk of developing cataracts by over 50%. A double blind study involving 30,000 patients performed at the University of Helsinki also demonstrated the beneficial effects of vitamins.

Glutathione
Loss of glutathione occurs in all forms of cataracts. Since 1912, researches have shown that reduced levels of glutathione precede the development of cataracts. With increasing age the levels of glutathione content of the human lens decreases by 4 to 14 times. Glutathione supplements are available but it is questioned weather this large molecule can pass through the digestive tract. N-acetyl-cysteine, a stable amino acid, has been shown to raise the levels of glutathione. Cysteine is found in protein rich eggs. Completely avoiding eggs may rob the body of this amino acid, which may have anti cataract properties.

Vitamin C
The lens of the human eye is bathed in a vitamin C rich aqueous solution, which is 30 times more concentrated than the human blood. It appears that this vitamin C acts as an ultraviolet filter preventing the harmful effects of ultraviolet light. With age the levels of vitamin C begin to decrease and this may contribute to the formation of the senile cataract. There are several studies, which have shown that high dosages of vitamin C (1000 mg/ day) will reverse the development of some cataracts.

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
Riboflavin helps to make a substance called flavine adenine dinuceotide, which is necessary for the production of glutathione. High levels of glutathione have been shown to keep the human lens clear and prevent the development of cataracts. In one study, 81 percent of patients with cataracts were deficient in riboflavin.

The vitamin supplement that I recommend is a Cataract Nutritional Formula manufactured by Nutritional Research. Information can be obtained from (877) 341-2703 or www.nutritionalresearch.net

Other Herbal Treatment
Cineraria maritima (Dusty Miller)
The government of India's Central Council for Research in Homeopathy, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has stated that tincture of Cineraria Maritima Succus is the drug of choice, which prevents the development of cataract. The recommended therapy is 1 to 2 drops in the eye, 3 to 6 times daily.
Boericke describes that it is most effective in traumatic cases and should be instilled into the eye one drop four or five times a day for several. Clarke states that patients should be receiving specific homeopathic treatment internally at the same time.

Homeopathy and Cataracts
Homeopathy is scientific method of therapy based on the principle of stimulating the body's own healing processes in order to accomplish cure. The basic system was devised and verified by Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician, nearly 200 years ago. Homeopathy's astounding success rates in both chronic and acute diseases has resulted in not only standing the test of time, but also rapidly achieving widespread acceptance in Europe, India and South America.

In Homeopathy ("homeo-" means "similar"), each of us is a total and complete individual, no aspect of which can be separated from any other. To be effective, any valid therapy must be based on a deep understanding of and respect for the uniqueness of each individual. In Homeopathy each patient is evaluated as a whole person- mental, emotional and physical. The prescribing remedy is based on the unique patterns found on all three levels. This means that each person is given a remedy that will stimulate his or her particular body to heal. Ten people with Cataracts might receive ten different homeopathic remedies.
Is homeopathy effective in the treatment of cataracts? A. B. Norton, MD reviewed his experience on this subject, which was published in North American Journal of Homeopathy. The Homeopathic Treatment of Incipient Senile Cataract, with Tabulated Results of One Hundred Cases was a convincing study to prove the validity of homeopathy. This study looked at the homeopathic treatment of cataracts in 295 Patients. 100 Patients were under treatment for longer then 3 months. Results: Improvement in 58% of cases, no change in 42%, Slight decrease in 26%, Significant decreases in 19%.

Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is one of the most success surgical procedures performed. It is now performed with minimal or no anesthesia and most patients have immediate recovery with no limitations in their activity. It should be considered in advanced cataracts with visual limitation if homeopathic and other non-invasive methods are not successful.

[back to top]

Can Alternative medicine help in the treatment of Glaucoma?
Edward C. Kondrot, MD(H), CCH

Lower your eye pressure by 5 to 10 mm Hg in 30 days!

Because of side effects of medication and the hazards of surgery glaucoma patients are looking for natural methods for lowering the eye pressure and preserving their vision.

Glaucoma is an eye disease where the pressure inside the eye begins to slowly increase. This increase in pressure causes the circulation of the optic nerve to decease and the vision begins to fade. At first the loss is barely noticeable in the periphery and then slowly progressing to involve the central vision.

Glaucoma is the thief in the night. A painless loss of vision that must be diagnosed early to prevent loss of vision
Most cases of glaucoma do not produce any symptoms. There is a slowly progressive loss of peripheral vision that is not noticed by the glaucoma patient. This fact alone makes it important to have yearly eye exams especially if you have a family history of glaucoma or are being treated for arteriosclerosis or diabetes.

Glaucoma has two components: increase in pressure and decrease in blood flow to the optic nerve
When the pressure in the eye is increased the blood flow to the optic nerve decreases, likewise when the pressure in the eye is decreased the blood flow to the nerve increases.  An example is when you fall asleep in an awkward position and your hand falls asleep. Once you move your hand and release the pressure the sensation and function come back into your hand.  Normally if you are healthy the function returns quickly but if you suffer from diabetes, poor circulation or nutritional deficiencies the circulation return will take much longer. Have you every in advertently pushed on your eye and noticed the vision getting dimmer? This occurs when the pressure inside the eye is greater the fluid pressure of the blood vessels going to the optic nerve.  Normally when you stop the pressure on the eye the circulation to the optic nerve will rapidly return. In glaucoma the blood vessels are not that resilient and are subject to permanent damage when the pressure increase is sustained for a long period of time

Optic nerve is the superhighway of vision to the brain
 The optic nerve is the transmitter of visual images from the eye to the brain. There are over 100 million rods and cones in the retina.  Each of these visual cells sends its image to the brain though a tiny fiber strand called the nerve fiber layer.  In the early stages damage of the nerve fiber layer results in loss of peripheral vision; in later stages blindness may result.  How does this happen? The optic nerve has a delicate supple of blood that is sensitive to changes pressure inside the eye. This loss of circulation to the optic nerve appears to be the reason for loss of vision. Elevated intraocular pressure is felt to be the main contributing factor, although there are patients with glaucoma who have low or normal intraocular pressure. Other factors which make the nerve more susceptible to damage are arteriosclerosis and diabetes mellitus.

Steps to lower your eye pressure

Diet
You should shift your diet away from meats and dairy products towards a largely vegetarian diet that includes cold water fish and eggs.  Our clinic encourages patients to follow the 70/30 diet. 70% of your diet should be organic and live food. Organic food has a greater nutritional value and it is free of toxic preservatives and pesticides. Live or raw food has a much better nutritional value. Cooking destroys much of the nutritional value. The remaining 30% can be cooked food. There is evidence that this type of diet will help in weight reduction, reduce the risk of atherosclerotic vascular disease, lower blood pressure, reduce the incidence of diabetes and improve blood flow to the eye.

Exercise
Aerobic exercise can reduce intraocular pressure by 4 to 6 mm Hg when compared to previously sedentary glaucoma patients. This has the same result as the pressure lowering properties of  many glaucoma medication. Find something that you enjoy and remember to continue your program. Brisk walking is a favorite activity of many people. Other exercise to consider is swimming, aerobics, and cycling. If you are physically limited consult with your doctor on other activities. Moderate exercise improves your cardiovascular  system , helps keep off extra pounds, lowers cholesterol, reduces high blood pressure and improves retinal circulation.  Exercise also helps to improve your mental outlook and reduces stress. These factors are important in helping the body fight disease. This is probably the best thing you will do for your health!

Coffee
Coffee should be reduced or eliminated. Studies have shown that coffee can produce a 13% reduction in retinal blood flow. This is especially important in patients that have existing retinal damage and who are losing vision.

Smoking
If you smoke please do everything possible to stop. Some studies show that there is a 2.9  increase in risk in developing glaucoma in smokers. While smoking,  each cigarette  can raise the intraocular pressure by 5.0 mm Hg or more. Nicotine has been shown to reduce retinal blood flow by 16%. Tobacco also robs the body of 25 mg of vitamin C per cigarette. Smokers have an increase in lipids (both fat and cholesterol) which increases the risk of severe cardiovascular disease.  These factors produce narrowing of the retina blood vessels that carry valuable nutrients to the eye.

Hypothyroidism
If you have glaucoma it is important to have your thyroid checked. Some  cases of low glaucoma have been linked  to low thyroid functioning. Hypothyroidism can lead to a condition called myxedema which results in a buildup of mucopolysaccharides throughout the body. These  mucopolysaccharides in the eye can block the outflow of aqueous producing elevations of intraocular pressure.

Men should avoid wearing a necktie!  Yes I will give you a doctor’s excuse!
Researchers at State University of New York Downstate Medical Center evaluated the results that neckties had on the IOP. They enrolled healthy men and 20 men with glaucoma. They tested pressure first with an open-collar shirt , then after three minutes after donning a tie, and again three minutes after loosening their ties. 60% of the men with glaucoma and 70% of the healthy men experienced a significant increase in IOP after wearing the tie for only 3 minutes. The increases ranged from more than 2 mm Hg to over 4 mm Hg. The researchers concluded that overly tight neckties can definitely affect eye health, interfere with the treatment of glaucoma, and possibly even increase the risk of developing glaucoma. (Br J Ophthalmol 03;87(8):946-9)

Alternative therapies to lower pressure and improve function ot the optic nerve

Homeopathy
Homeopathy is scientific method of therapy based on the principle of stimulating the body’s own healing processes in order to accomplish cure. The basic system was devised and verified by Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician, nearly 200 years ago. Homeopathy’s astounding success rates in both chronic and acute diseases has resulted in not only standing the test of time, but rapidly achieving widespread acceptance in Europe, India and South America. In Homeopathy (“homeo-” means “similar”), each of us is a total. complete individual, no aspect of which can be separated from any other. To be effective, any valid therapy must be based on a deep understanding of and respect for the uniqueness of each individual. In Homeopathy each patient is evaluated  as a whole person- mental, emotional and physical. The prescribing remedy is based on the unique patterns found on all three levels. This means that each person is given a remedy that will stimulate their particular body to heal. Ten people with  glaucoma might receive ten different homeopathic remedies. Homeopathy has been carefully researched and its effectiveness has been reported in the following well respected national medical journals: Jacobs J, Treatment of Acute Childhood Diarrhea with Homeopathic Medication. Pediatrics 1994; 93:719-7255, Reilly DT , Is Homeopathy a Placebo Response? Lancet 1986; Oct: 881-886 and Kleijnen J, Clinical Trails of Homeopathy. British Medical Journal 1991; 302: 315-323. Homeopathy can be a valuable adjunct in your treatment of Glaucoma.

Color therapy in the treatment glaucoma
Color therapy sounds like something that belongs to interior design and not in the doctor’s office! You may be surprised that there is a long history of color in the treatment of eye disease. A 73 year old institution called the College of Syntonics has investigated color therapy in the treatment of eye disease. Evidence shows that disease is caused by an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system.  The autonomic system has 2 parts the sympathetic and the parasympathetic. The sympathetic responsible for survival or “fight or flight” and the parasympathetic which is responsible for the body sustaining life, like digestion and healing disease. When you are running away from a grizzly bear your body does not care about digesting your food! Stress – yes we have heard of that word - STRESS certainly contributes to disease and stress can also be the fuel that sustains disease and prevents healing.  The mechanism of stress is felt to over-stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and to suppress the parasympathetic. When the parasympathetic system is suppressed the body has a difficult time to heal disease. Healing will not take place unless there is a balance in the autonomic system. Color therapy can help. The red spectrum has been documented to stimulate the sympathetic system.  No we do not want this since most of our life takes care of this very nicely!  The color red has been associated with anger and increase heart rate and an increase in blood pressure. Blue on the other hand will relax the sympathetic system and stimulate the parasympathetic. This is the first step towards healing disease. Think about how relaxing the blue ocean water and blue sky can be!   A vacation to the beach can be very healing. The College of Syntonics has investigated specific color wave lengths and has studied the affects on eye disease.

Green light lowers intraocular pressure!
An article called “Some Experiments with Green Spectacles Prescribed to Glaucomatous Patients” By R. B. Zaretskava was published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology (AJO) in 1948.
The article showed a pronounced tendency of reducing intra ocular pressure in glaucomatous patients who wore green glasses. Pressures were measured 3 times a day at 7:00 AM, 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM. in 19 patents who had glaucoma. The decrease in pressure was fairly appreciable 6 mm Hg in 8 cases, 6 to 10 mm Hg in 9 cases and 10 or more in 3 cases. It was felt that green light brought about a definite rearrangement of the autonomic nervous system and thus affecting the intraocular pressure of the eye. This may be a valuable adjunctive therapy for glaucoma patients who are struggling to lower their pressures and those who are interested in reducing or eliminating toxic eye drops.
The AJO is a very prestigious peer review journal in ophthalmology. How many eye doctors do you think are aware of this article or the positive effects of green light! At the Healing the Eye and Wellness center we routinely use green light therapy along with microcurrent in the treatment of glaucoma.

Frequency Specific Microcurrent in the treatment of glaucoma
Microcurrent has been used over the past 8 years to help improve the vision of people suffering from macular degeneration. The mechanism is felt to be 3 fold; increasing the circulation to the eye, stimulating the function of the retinal cells and possibly in the regeneration of cells.  The effects of  10 to 500 microamps on the cellular level have been documented by Dr. Cheng to increase ATP production by 500%, increase protein synthesis by 70% and increase cell transport by 40%.
A new technique called Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM) has produced a dramatic improvement in treatment outcomes of macular degeneration. Instead of using basic generic frequencies which have a low level affect on the diseased eye tissue we now can use frequencies specific to the retinal tissue and the pathology. The energy is driven into the area needed for tissue repair.
FSM in the treatment of glaucoma is designed to help lower the pressure, improve blood flow to the optic nerve and to remove toxins in the eye. The goal in traditional glaucoma treatment is to lower the pressure inside the eye thus enabling the optic nerve to have greater blood flow. Using Microcurrent we are using frequencies to both lower the pressure and at the same time improve blood flow to the nerve. There has been several studies to show that microcurrent can improve the function of the optic nerve.

Lipid Exchange / Phospholipid Therapy
Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is one of the most exciting therapies now available in our clinic. PC has only recently received increased clinical focus because of its ability to dramatically improve the outcomes of patients in a wide range of disorders such as ALS, Lyme, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, MS, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, Autism, Bipolar, Seizures, Hepatitis C, Environmental Illness, Cardiovascular disease and eye disease. There is good evidence that this therapy can be of value in restoring optic nerve function in patients with glaucoma. The eye ranks as one of the highest in lipid cellular complexity. There are over 100 million rods and cones in each eye and each one has up to 2000 layers of lipid membrane. Each membrane contains 140 million rhodopsin proteins which are responsible for capturing photons to produce sight.  Each day a portion of this membrane  and the rhodopisin proteins are sloughed off. Each cell discards about 7% of its lipid membrane stack each day. The entire photo-receiving structure is regenerated every 14 days!

 PC directly up-regulates the fluidity of the membrane, improving its vitality which is essential for all of metabolism including neuronal transmission. Poor neuronal response is degraded in all the neurological disorders and is directly improved with Phosphatidylcholine (PC) therapy. Raising PC levels plays an important role in improving memory and recall, and has clinically shown to improve the flow of information of all the senses and most significantly eyesight. PC given either orally or intravenously helps restore the proper integrity of the cell membrane thereby restoring proper function of organ systems, especially the liver, the gut, the brain, immune system, heart, and hormonal system, which ultimately improves the total health of the individual.

Chelation Therapy
Chelation therapy is an intravenous therapy using the synthetic amino acid EDTA (Ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid) which has the ability to "bond" or "hook onto" atoms of calcium, lead, cadmium, mercury and some of the trace minerals. These minerals combined with the EDTA are eliminated from the body through the kidneys into the urine. Chelation therapy is used for patients with heavy metal poisoning, poor circulation due to arteriosclerosis and conditions related to these primary diagnoses. The causes of glaucoma are many but it is felt that arteriosclerosis, accumulation of heavy metals and the formation of free radicals contribute to this disease. Chelation therapy has been documented to be helpful in all of these conditions. In arteriosclerosis, the blood vessels are damaged and then obstructed by the buildup of plaque. During and following chelation therapy, this plaque is dissolved very slowly and the blood flow throughout the body improves. We expect chelation patients to follow a basic program of non-smoking, diet, exercise and vitamin and mineral supplements. Studies have shown that oral chelation is not as effective as intravenous. The oral agents are bound to metals in the gastrointestinal tract and are rendered ineffective for chelating any metals or calcium from the body. You can call the American College of Advancement of Medicine for more information regarding chelation (949) 583-7666 or visit their web page www.acam.org

Vitamins and nutritional products for glaucoma

Antioxidants
Antioxidants may help improve outflow of fluid in the eye and lower the intraocular pressure. The trabecular meshwork is the drain of the eye. There have been some studies which have shown that when the antioxidants are blocked the intraocular pressure will be increased. Antioxidants may also protect the optic nerve by blocking oxygen free radical vasoconstriction which may lead to ischemia. Antioxidants may also protect the optic nerve from the inflammatory  affects of infection and inflammation.

Vitamin C
3 to 6 grams of vitamin C can lower the intraocular pressure by 5 mm HG. Begin by slowly increasing your dosage of vitamin C.  Another benefit is Vitamin C is also a chelating agent. It will help remove toxic metals from the body  which interfere with  function of the optic nerve.  It is best to take 3 divided doses with each meal. Begin with 1 gram 3 times a day and gradually increase to 2 grams three times a day. Decrease you dosage if you develop indigestion of loose stools

Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 may have a protective effect on the optic nerve and prevent visual loss in glaucoma. A Japanese study showed that people who took 1500 mcg. had a much lower visual loss. It protects the myelin sheath or covering around the optic  nerve.

Magnesium
Magnesium deficiency is associated with systemic hypertension. It may have a role in blocking the affect of calcium which  causes vasoconstriction of blood vessels.  The use of magnesium has been shown to improve retinal circulation in some cases of retinopathy. Physical or emotional stress also causes an increase in the need for magnesium.

Selenium
It is a vital antioxidant which protects the immune system by  preventing the formation of free radicals. It is especially important to combine Selenium with Vitamin E. They act together to aid in the production of antibodies and to help maintain a healthy heart, liver and eyes.

Chromium
Studies have shown that Chromium will lower lipid levels in the body and increase the levels of good cholesterol (HDL). Chromium may be especially important in patients  taking beta blockers. Timoptic has been shown to increase the levels of lipids and lower the levels of HDL. All individuals who are taking Timoptic should consider supplemental Chromium.

Amino Acids
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that protects retinal cells from UV radiation. N- acetyl cysteine, selenium and riboflavin all help to stimulate the production of glutathione.

Fatty Acids
Diets deficient in Omega- 3 fatty acids have been shown to result in visual impairment. In one European study Omega- 3 fats improved the vision in 6 out of 7 patients with macular degeneration.

Quercetin
A Bioflavinoid found in red onions has been shown to be potent in preventing the damage of fat tissue in the eyes from UV light. It also inhibits histamine release and relaxes the smooth muscles of blood vessels. It has a strong affinity for iron. Reducing this oxidant may reduce the oxidative stress of the body.

Bilberry
Interest  developed in this European plant, when World War II British Air Force pilots reported improved night vision after taking Bilberry. It is now used in Europe for many eye disorders including cataract, glaucoma, macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa and diabetic retinopathy. It contains anthocyanosides which have been shown to stabilize collagen, increase intracellular Vitamin C levels and decrease capillary fragility. Studies have also shown  a decrease in platelet aggregation (similar affect as aspirin) and a reduction  in blood sugar. Bilberry may improve oxygen delivery to the eye and act as an antioxidant. Bilberry may have a protective effect on the eye and prevent further damage from the glaucoma.

Ginkgo Biloba
It is tree that lives as long as 1000 years. Originally found in China, it was imported into the United States in 1784. The Ginkgo leaf extracts are now among the leading prescription medications in both Germany and France. Ginkgo’s primary clinical application has been in the treatment of vascular insufficiency. Many studies have demonstrated improvement in circulation in patients with arterial insufficiency. In addition to improving retinal circulation, Ginkgo also has a protective affect against free radicals. One study has shown that a combination of ginko biloba and zinc may slow the progression of visual loss.

Coleus Forskohlii
It is an extract from the Coleus , a variety of the mint plant. It has been used by Hindu practitioners for the treatment of cardiac disease, asthma and high blood pressure. It relaxes smooth muscles and produces vasodilatation of blood vessels.  It has been reported is several studies to lower the intraocular pressure in patients with glaucoma. Forskohliin was an experiment eye drop found to reduce eye pressure. It was abandoned because the eye drops produced a milky covering over the eye. This side affect is eliminated by taking the Herb orally.

Suggested nutritional products for Glaucoma
 
Ocular Function spray
Sublingual spray that contains essential antioxidants along with ingredients essential for the treatment  of glaucoma. Ginko Bilobao, coleus forskollei  and Vitamin E. Sublingual route delivers a  higher and more consistent absorbtion into the body.
(3 sprays under the tongue twice a day)

Glaucoma Formula
Vitamin, mineral and herbal formula designed for patients with glaucoma. Contains B complex vitamins to protect the optic nerve. Also contains coleus forskohlii an Indian herb which has been shown to reduce the intraocular pressure.
(3 capsules twice a day)

Glaucoma Homeopathic Formula
Homeopathic formula designed for glaucoma. Contains tissue salts and other homeopathic products.
(1 pellet twice a day )

A-C Carbamide
Also called urea which is a component of blood and and all tissue fluids. It is an essential lymph salt which functions as an osmotic regulator. In glaucoma aqueous fluid (Product of Lymph) accumulates in the eye producing an elevation of pressure. A-C Carbamide helps to regulate this lymph of the eye.  In my Ophthalmology  residency I can remember giving intravenous urea to patients prior to cataract surgery to help lower the eye pressure.This same substance can now be given orally to have the same effect. 
(6 to 12 capusles a day)

Iplex
A combination formula for the health of the eye. It contains porcine brain especially the pineal, bovine liver, kidney and adrenal extracts.  These ingredients aid in the ocular function of the eye.
(2 to 4 capsules a day)

BodyBio PC
Formulated with a 4:1 Ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 in softgels and liquid form. Of the tens of thousands of molecules that make up the life of a cell, Phosphatidylcholine (PC) stands apart; probably the most important one of all. BodyBio PC is made of only pure phospholipids which automatically form liposomes in the watery environment of the body, but it goes one important step further… it is also formulated with the essential lipids at a 4:1 ratio. 
(2 soft gels twice a day)

Metagenics - EPA-DHA 720  
Enhanced Omega-3 Levels for Greater Support - provides 720 mg of omega-3 essential fatty acids from cold water fish per soft gel
(2 soft gels twice a day)

For more information on these products please call 800-430-9328 / 602-631-4504 or go to:
http://www.nutritionalresearch.net/glaucoma_products.htm

[back to top]