Glaucoma refers to a group of diseases that damage the optic nerves and reduce or completely eliminate vision. There is currently no known cure for glaucoma, but scientists and doctors have made strides toward combating the disease, including some research that suggests that physical exercise can combat the effects of glaucoma as well as other ailments that can lead to glaucoma. You should consult a doctor before attempting any home remedies for glaucoma.
Types of Glaucoma
There are two known types of glaucoma -- open angle and closed angle. Open angle is the more common of the two, occurring when intraocular pressure, or IOP, increases, squeezing tissue on the optic nerve and reducing blood flow to cells in the eye, causing them to die. Closed angle glaucoma occurs as a result of decreased blood flow to the optic nerve, which also causes the death of cells. Usually, closed angle glaucoma does not have an increase in IOP.
Overall Circulation
Sluggish circulation can present problems all over the body, not just in the eyes. Physical exercise can increase circulation in the eyes as well as all other parts of the body by motivating the heart to pump blood to keep up with the exertion of muscles. There are some studies that have shown vigorous exercise done a minimum of three times per week has the capacity to reduce IOP by 20 percent.
Flashing
Flashing is an experimental technique designed to stimulate the trabecular meshwork, which is the tissue located in the anterior chamber of the eye and is a major factor in determining IOP. The exercise is done by sitting in front of a bright light in a dark room in reach of the light's switch. Starting with the room dark, inhale and switch the light on, then exhale and switch the light off. The procedure is to be repeated for at least 30 minutes each day. Its purpose is to get the trabecular meshwork to react to the increase and decrease of light.
Palming
Palming is an exercise that can be done anywhere at anytime and can help relax the eyes and relieve pressure. It is done by closing one's eyes and covering the eyes with the palms of the hands without putting pressure on the eyes. Those who suffer from increased IOP will usually see flashes of light or color when they first start palming, which generally means there is strain on the eye. Over time, the lack of light will cause the eye muscles to relax and begin easing tension.
Isokinetic Exercises
Isokinetic exercises are similar to aerobic exercise, with the key difference that they are done at a fixed rate of speed, such as riding a stationary bike. By keeping the rate of exercise constant, the demand on the body remains a constant as well, meaning the increased circulation through the body, and thus, through the eyes, stays on the same level throughout the activity.
