2025.01.20
[Doctor Supervised] The Relationship Between Oxidative Stress and Glaucoma: Understanding Its Causes and Prevention Strategies
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the body’s reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and its antioxidant defenses. In a state of oxidative stress, ROS attack healthy cells. Glaucoma is a condition where elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) damages the optic nerve, potentially leading to vision loss. Since oxidative stress can contribute to glaucoma, managing oxidative stress can help in its prevention.
This article explains the relationship between oxidative stress and glaucoma, the causes of glaucoma, and effective strategies for reducing oxidative stress to prevent the condition.
Glaucoma is a progressive disease characterized by optic nerve damage. The condition develops slowly, often going unnoticed until significant vision loss has occurred. Within the eye, a fluid called aqueous humor provides essential nutrients. If the drainage channels for this fluid become blocked, intraocular pressure rises, damaging the optic nerve and resulting in glaucoma.
However, glaucoma can also occur in individuals with normal intraocular pressure, suggesting that elevated IOP is just one of many contributing factors. Recent studies have highlighted oxidative stress as a key factor in the onset and progression of glaucoma.
Related Article: Diseases Related to Dry Eye and Oxidative Stress (Louis Pasteur Medical Research Center)
Although many glaucoma patients in Japan maintain normal IOP levels, oxidative stress has emerged as a potential contributor to glaucoma development. Oxygen metabolism, essential for life, inadvertently produces ROS. When ROS levels exceed the body’s antioxidant capacity, healthy cells, including those in the optic nerve, can be damaged.
While traditional glaucoma treatments, such as eye drops and surgery, focus on reducing IOP, oxidative stress management is increasingly recognized as a valuable preventive and therapeutic approach.
Managing oxidative stress involves minimizing behaviors that produce excessive ROS and increasing antioxidant intake to strengthen the body’s defenses. For example, avoiding UV exposure, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can help reduce oxidative stress. Complementing these efforts with a diet rich in antioxidants or supplementation can further aid in prevention.
Both UVA and UVB rays can induce oxidative stress by generating ROS like hydrogen peroxide. These reactive molecules damage skin and ocular tissues, contributing to photoaging and potentially increasing the risk of glaucoma.
Protect your eyes and skin by using umbrellas, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Choose sunscreen with appropriate SPF and PA ratings depending on activity levels, ensuring comprehensive protection against UV rays.
Tobacco smoke contains high levels of ROS and acetaldehyde, both of which exacerbate oxidative stress. Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption generates acetaldehyde during metabolism, further increasing ROS production. Moderation is key to minimizing these risk factors.
Antioxidant-rich foods, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, polyphenols, and carotenoids, can enhance the body’s ability to combat oxidative stress. Examples include: – **Vitamin C:** Kiwi, bell peppers, and strawberries – **Vitamin E:** Nuts, seeds, and plant oils – **Polyphenols:** Green tea, blueberries, and coffee – **Carotenoids:** Tomatoes, spinach, and carrots
Supplements can help fill nutritional gaps, particularly for individuals unable to consume adequate amounts of antioxidants through diet. Options like vitamin C, vitamin E, and alpha-lipoic acid are commonly used for their antioxidant properties. However, it’s crucial to select scientifically validated supplements and adhere to recommended dosages.
Oxidative stress contributes to glaucoma alongside elevated intraocular pressure. Preventive measures include avoiding UV exposure, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption, while incorporating antioxidant-rich foods and supplements. Small changes in daily habits can significantly reduce oxidative stress, supporting overall eye health and potentially preventing glaucoma.
