Detached Retina

The retina is the area at the back of the eye that contains millions of tiny light receptors that convert the visual images into electrical impulses. These impulses are then relayed along the optic nerve to the brain which interprets the information and forms images. If the retina becomes detached from the underlying layer the choroid (which feeds the retina with nourishment from the supplied blood vessels) then the damage can cause further complications to the health of the eye and vision can be lost.

SYMPTOMS OF A DETACHED RETINA

  • visual abnormalities
  • full or partial loss of vision
  • floaters
  • brief light flashes in the eye
  • blurring of vision

CAUSES OF A DETACHED RETINA

  • age
  • family history
  • short sighted people where the eyeball is elongated and the retina is stretched and thinner than normal
  • cataract patients
  • diabetes
  • local trauma

DIET TIPS FOR EYE HEALTH

  • Increase garlic, onions, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and cabbage in your diet as these contain sulphuric compounds which benefit circulation
  • Improve your diet by increasing the amounts of fruits and vegetables you consume daily, especially green leafy vegetables. A diet full of vital nutrients and healthy foods means better nutritional status and lower chances of deficiencies
  • Increase foods rich in antioxidants such as berries, blueberries and cranberries as well as carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, pumpkin and squash

LIFESTYLE FACTORS FOR EYE HEALTH

  • Improve the health of the circulation, especially if you experience cold hands and feet
  • Consider doing a cleansing detoxifying regime or Spring Cleanse to improve the general health of the body and make the eyes clearer while improving the micro-circulation to the capillaries and eyes

NATURAL REMEDIES FOR EYE HEALTH

  • Herbal medicines to improve circulation to the eyes include: Goji berries, Green tea, Ginkgo, Bilberry, Eyebright, Calendula and Grape seed extract
  • Fish oil contains natural and potent anti-inflammatory properties to ensure better circulation to the micro-capillaries of the eyes
  • Improving your antioxidant status will help to strengthen the microcirculation to the eyes and reduce the irritation and incidence of blood vessels leaking
  • A deficiency of Vitamin C and bioflavinoids may result in weak capillaries and these nutrients strengthen the capillary walls
  • Vitamin A is a nutrient specific for the health of the eyes to improve circulation. Other beneficial nutrients are Zinc, CoQ10, Lutein, Vitamin E, Zeaxanthin and Lycopene