Pigmentary glaucoma is an inherited form of open-angle glaucoma that develops in individuals with pigment dispersion syndrome. Individuals are most often nearsighted, or myopic; men develop pigmentary glaucoma more often than women, usually between the ages of 20 and 45, according to opthalmologist Elliot Werner, M.D., of Wills Eye Hospital. Glaucoma, a rise in eye pressure, reduces blood flow through the optic nerve, impairing vision. The abnormal structure of the eye causes this type of glaucoma; vitamins will not prevent or cure it.
Causes
The shape of the eyeball in people with pigment dispersion syndrome causes the pigment layer of the eye to rub against the lens, removing small pieces of the iris pigment. The pieces accumulate in the structures that drain fluids from the eyes, blocking the opening. This causes pressure within the eye to rise, leading to glaucoma. Vitamins cannot remove the blockage or prevent the pigment layer from hitting the lens.
Treatments
Vitamin therapy is not part of the treatment for this disorder. Treatments include selective or argon laser trabeculoplasty to clear debris from the area and allow fluid to drain or drops to constrict the pupil, which reduces the rubbing on the lens and the shedding of cells.
Lifestyle Factors That Worsen Pigmentary Glaucoma
Strenuous exercise can worsen pigmentary glaucoma by causing a "pigment storm." Taking vitamins will neither worsen nor help this condition. Talk with your doctor about the types of exercise you should do to minimize the risk of worsening your disorder.
Considerations
Around 30 percent of people with pigment dispersion syndrome develop pigmentary glaucoma. Close medical follow-up will help make the diagnosis and start treatment before permanent vision loss occurs. Vitamin therapy will not prevent this disorder from developing or from progressing, although vitamins C, E, and A and zinc and copper can help your eyes stay healthy in general, doctor of optometry Joe Ross states.
References
- Glaucoma Research Foundation; Pigment Dispersion Syndrome and Pigmentary Glaucoma; March 2011
- Holistic Vision Care; Glaucoma; Joseph Ross, O.D.
- The Glaucoma Foundation: Pigmentary Glaucoma
- Wills Eye Institute; Pigmentary Glaucoma Chat; Elliot Wener, M.D.; May 2004
- University of Arizona: Pigmentary Glaucoma
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