Glaucoma occurs when eye pressure damages the optic nerve, a set of nerve fibers located at the back of your eye. The damage happens slowly, typically over a period of many years, and results in a progressive loss of your peripheral vision. Medicated eye drops can reduce eye pressure, but the drops often cause discomfort. As a result, many people search for supplements, such as fish oil, to aid in treating glaucoma.
Eye Pressure
The front chamber of your eye, just in front of your iris, contains fluid called aqueous that provides the necessary nutrients to this portion of the eye. Your eye continuously produces aqueous and drains the excess, keeping the pressure in balance. If the fluid does not drain at the same rate the newly produced aqueous enters the eye, your pressure may increase. A high eye pressure will not typically cause any noticeable symptoms. However, if the drainage angle closes completely, a condition called acute angle closure glaucoma, you may experience nausea, vomiting and intense pain. This requires immediate medical attention to prevent blindness.
Omega-3
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, and these essential acids help promote proper development. Omega-3 may also play an important role in preventing eye diseases such as macular degeneration and reducing irritation and other symptoms caused by dry eye syndrome. Researchers have not determined the role of fish oil and omega-3 on glaucoma, but, according to Gina White and Dr. Gary Heiting of All About Vision, omega-3 may help the aqueous fluid drain properly.
Additional Sources
Your body needs omega-3 fatty acids for proper functioning, but your body does not produce or create this nutrient. As a result, you need to eat foods rich in omega-3 or take supplements. Doctors commonly recommend fish oil capsules, but you can also take flaxseed oil capsules for omega-3. Certain foods provide omega-3 as well, including salmon, tuna, mackerel, walnuts and ground flaxseed.
Warnings
If your doctor diagnosed you with glaucoma, she may have prescribed eye drops to help reduce your eye pressure. You should not stop taking prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor. If you and your doctor determine that fish oil may offer some benefits to your conditions, she may recommend taking fish oil in addition to your prescription medications. Stopping your eye drops could result in increased pressure and an increased risk of vision loss.
Considerations
Fish oil may react with medications or other supplements, so you should consult with your doctor before taking fish oil or other omega-3 supplements. If your doctor determines this supplement offer benefits for glaucoma treatment or prevention, she will help you determine a fish oil dosage based on your health, medications and dietary intake.
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