I have had glaucoma for at least 40 years. I started off using drops, timoptic and several others, was eventually referred to a glaucoma specialist whom I continue to see several times per year. I have had laser surgery where they put holes around the cornea for better drainage, used Xalatan,the drops that make your eye lashes grow (very glamorous!), when I reached the age where I needed cataract surgery, he did a combination of that plus a drain and for several years after that, I didn't need any drops at all. Now I use two different eye drops in my worst eye, Istalol and Simbrinza, morning and evening. I can still read 20/20 on the eye chart. They used to get concerned if the pressure got close to 20, now they want it even lower, 12-15. I drive and continue to do most of the things I've always done, just at a slower pace. With PN, I don't overdo or my feet start burning and I have trouble sleeping then.

I thought glaucoma was hereditary--both my parents developed it in their later years, but I was in my early 40's when my ophthalmologist started treating me (he always checked my pressure because of my parents' history of the disease). I found the article very interesting and wonder if there's a connection to PN or if we are just more susceptible to nerve problems--I used to have migraines too. I got interested in nutrition years ago trying to find something natural to cure my migraines.

I've always taken a lot of supplements, lutein w/zeaxanthin, plus antioxidants, and the regular recommended PN supplements, including Morton's Epsom lotion as well as eating gluten-free, no night shades , etc. I have also used Sustane following eye surgery.

Both of my ophthalmologists believe in treating glaucoma aggressively and for me, it has worked. I have an old friend back in Nebraska, whose doctor never wanted her pressure over 25, and she is now blind, solely dependent upon her husband.