Glaucoma is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a progressive disease that damages the optic nerve over time, leading to vision loss and eventually irreversible blindness.

While there is no known cure for glaucoma, there are treatments that can help slow down its progression.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve. This nerve connects the retina to the brain, allowing us to see. When the optic nerve is damaged, it can lead to vision loss and blindness.

Glaucoma is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight” because it can cause irreversible damage to the eyes without showing any symptoms until it’s too late.

Types of Glaucoma

There are several types of glaucoma, the two most common being:.

Open-Angle Glaucoma

This is the most common form of glaucoma. In open-angle glaucoma, the drainage canals in the eyes become clogged over time, causing the intraocular pressure (IOP) to rise and damage the optic nerve.

This type of glaucoma progresses slowly and often goes unnoticed until significant vision loss has occurred.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma

This type of glaucoma occurs when the iris bulges forward and blocks the drainage canals in the eyes, preventing fluid from draining and causing a sudden rise in IOP.

Symptoms of angle-closure glaucoma include severe eye pain, nausea and vomiting, blurred vision, and seeing halos around lights.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

Most people with early-stage glaucoma experience no symptoms, which is why regular eye exams are essential in detecting and treating glaucoma. As the disease progresses, you may experience the following symptoms:.

Loss of peripheral vision
Tunnel vision
Blurred vision
Eye pain
Headaches
Nausea and vomiting (in acute angle-closure glaucoma)

The Role of Vitamin B3 in Preventing Glaucoma

A study conducted at the University of Melbourne found that vitamin B3, also known as niacin, may help protect against glaucoma. The researchers discovered that high doses of niacin helped protect the optic nerve in mice with glaucoma.

The vitamin was found to boost the production of a compound called NAD, which protects the cells in the eyes from damage and inflammation.

The study’s lead author, Dr. Pete Williams, said, “Our results suggest that niacin, given therapeutically, could potentially be used as a simple and cost-effective treatment to help protect against glaucoma.”.

Getting Enough Vitamin B3

Vitamin B3 can be found in a variety of foods, including:.

Poultry
Fish
Legumes
Nuts and Seeds
Mushrooms

In addition to dietary sources, vitamin B3 can also be taken as a supplement. However, it is important to speak to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Other Ways to Prevent Glaucoma

While there is no cure for glaucoma, there are steps you can take to help prevent its progression:.

Visit your eye doctor regularly for comprehensive eye exams
Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly
Quit smoking
Wear protective eyewear when necessary
Manage your stress levels

Conclusion

Glaucoma is a serious condition that can cause irreversible damage to the eyes. While there is no cure for glaucoma, there are steps you can take to help prevent its progression.

Incorporating vitamin B3 into your diet, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and staying vigilant with regular eye exams can help protect against vision loss and blindness caused by glaucoma.