The modem medical treatment for glaucoma is through surgery which relieves the internal pressure in the eye due to excess fluid. This, however, does not remove the cause of the presence of the excess fluid. Consequently, even after the operation, there is no guarantee whatsoever that the trouble will not recur, or that it will not affect the other eye. The natural treatment for glaucoma is the same as that for any other condition associated with high toxicity and is directed towards preserving whatever sight remains. If treated in the early stages, the results are encouraging. Though cases of advanced glaucoma may be uncurable, certain nutritional and other biological approaches can prove effective in controlling the condition and preserving the remaining sight.



Certain foodstuffs should be scrupulously avoided by patients suffering from glaucoma. Coffee in particular should be completely avoided because of its high caffeine content. Caffeine causes stimulation -of vasoconstrictors, elevating blood pressure and increasing blood to the eye. Beer and tobacco, which can cause constriction of blood vessels, should also be avoided. Tea should be taken only in moderation. The patient should not take excessive fluids, whether it is juice, milk or water at any time. He may drink small amounts several times with at least one-hour intervals.

The diet of the patient suffering from glaucoma should consist of seeds, nuts and grains, vegetables and fruit, with emphasis on raw Vitamin C-rich foods, fresh fruits and vegetables.

Certain nutrients have been found helpful in the treatment of glaucoma. It has been found that the glaucoma patients are usually deficient in Vitamin A, B, C, protein, calcium and other minerals. Nutrients such as calcium and B? complex help relieve the intraocular condition. Many practioners believe that intraocular pressure in glaucoma can be lowered by the Vitamin C therapy. Dr. Michele Virno and his colleagues reported recently at a meeting of the Roman Ophthalmological Society in Rome, Italy, that the average person weighing 150 pounds who is given 7000 mg. of ascorbic acid five times daily, acquired acceptable intraocular pressure within 45 days. Symptoms such as mild stomach discomfort and diarrhoea from large doses of Vitamin C were temporary and soon disappeared. It has also been suggested that some calcium should always be taken with each dose of ascorbic acid to minimise side effects of the large dose.

The patient should avoid emotional stress and cultivate a tranquil, restful lifestyle. He should also avoid prolonged straining of the eye such as occurs during excessive T.V. or movie watching and excessive reading. The use of sunglasses should be avoided.