GLAUCOMA

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases which result in damage to the optic nerve and vision loss. The most common type is open-angle glaucoma with less common types including closed-angle glaucoma and normal-tension glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma develops slowly over time and there is no pain. Side vision may begin to decrease followed by central vision resulting in blindness if not treated. Closed-angle glaucoma can present gradually or suddenly. The sudden presentation may involve severe eye pain, blurred vision, mid-dilated pupil, redness of the eye, and nausea. The excessive use of stimulants, either alcohol or tobacco, or any exhaustive mental or physical labour must be strictly forbidden. Only moderate use of the eyes should be allowed in any case, and during the attacks, or when they follow each other in rapid succession, complete rest is necessary. Bright light, either natural or artificial, should be avoided, or the eyes protected by sun glasses. Homeopathy can help. Here are a few remedies that your homeopath may consider. Belladonna Often of benefit in relieving the severe pains of glaucoma, especially if accompanied by throbbing headache, flushed face, etc. The eyes are injected, pupils dilated, fundus hyperemic, and pain both in and around the eye, varying greatly in character, though usually seems to be deep and of a pressing nature ; sometimes, as if the eye were being torn out, or again as if pressed into the head, etc. The eyes feel hot, dry and stiff as if they might protrude. Bryonia On account of its action in serous inflammations in general, this remedy has been given with benefit in glaucoma. The eyes feel full as if pressed out, often associated with sharp shooting pains through the eye and head. The eyes feel sore to touch and on moving them in any direction. The usual concomitant symptoms help in deciding us in the selection. Cedron For the relief of the pains of glaucoma, when they are severe and shooting along the course of the supra-orbital nerve. Colocynth Of excellent service in relieving the pains of glaucoma when of a severe, burning, aching, sticking, cutting character in the eye and around, always relieved by firm pressure and by walking in a warm room, aggravated by rest at night and upon stooping. Phosphorus Fundus hyperemic and hazy, halo around the light, and various lights and colours flashing before the eyes, especially when found in tall, slender patients. Prunus spinosa Pain severe, crushing in the eye as if pressed asunder, or sharp shooting through the eye and corresponding side of the head. Aqueous and vitreous hazy, fundus hypertonic. Rhododendron Incipient glaucoma, with much pain in and around the eye, periodic in character and always worse just before a storm, ameliorated after the storm commences. Spigelia Pains sharp and stabbing through the eye and head, worse on motion and at night.