Your optic nerve is a set of nerve fibers that come together at the back of your eye and are responsible for carrying visual information to your brain. Eye diseases and conditions of the optic nerve could damage the nerve fibers and result in vision loss. In some circumstances your doctor may recommend fish oil or other form of omega-3 fatty acids to help your condition. However, you should not use fish oil without first consulting with your doctor.
Fish Oil
Fish oil and fish oil supplements are derived from fatty fish, such as salmon, cod liver and mackerel. These fish provide omega-3 fatty acid, a necessary nutrient that supports various physical functions and may also help prevent and treat certain health conditions.
Optic Neuritis
Optic neuritis is a condition that occurs when you have inflammation of the optic nerve. In theory, the anti-inflammatory components of fish oil could potentially help reduce inflammation. Your doctor may recommend continuing medications or other treatments in addition to fish oil, and this may help reduce your risk of complications if fish oil does not provide an adequate treatment.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve. This damage stems from a high intraocular pressure that may limit the blood flow to your nerve. Damage occurs slowly, often taking many years to cause noticeable changes in your vision. Aqueous humor fills the front of your eye, and a high pressure may result from a build-up of fluid, often as a result of improper drainage. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil could help increase the drainage of the aqueous, and, in effect, reduce eye pressure and the risk of damage to the optic nerve.
Considerations
You should not take fish oil or any other supplement without first consulting with your doctor. She can help you evaluate your general health and weigh the possible risks of using fish oil. If you and your doctor discuss your options and determine that omega-3 might help you, she may give you alternative sources of omega-3, such as flaxseed oil. Aside from fish, other food sources of this nutrient include walnuts and ground flaxseed.
References
- MedlinePlus: Fish Oil: November 18, 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- MayoClinic.com: Optic Neuritis: February 12, 2011
- All About Vision: Eye Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Gina White and Gary Heiting, OD: September 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Glaucoma
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