Retinopathy is an eye disorder of the small blood vessels (capillaries) of the retina. The two main causes are diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure).
With diabetic retinopathy, there are two kinds (nonproliferative and proliferative). Nonproliferative retinopathy is characterized by leaky capillaries, whereas proliferative retinopathy has increased capillary formation.
Hypertensive retinopathy develops from a thickening of the small arteries (arterioles), decreasing their response to light. As the disease progresses, the arterioles can also become leaky, further affecting vision.
Symptoms of retinopathy include blurred and fluctuating vision, difficulty adjusting from bright to dim light, poor night vision, and floating specks in the eye. If left untreated, retinopathy can lead to blindness.
SUPPLEMENTS FOR RETINOPATHY
There are several natural supplements that can help with retinopathy. Consult with your healthcare provider to see which of the following supplements may be appropriate for you. PLEASE NOTE: It is very important to make sure that supplements do not interfere with your medications or an existing health condition.
Vitamins & Minerals
No vitamins or minerals stand out as being particularly helpful for retinopathy.
Less Helpful: vitamins B1, B3, B6, A, C, E, and minerals magnesium and selenium.
Other Supplements
Polyphenols – A class of polyphenols, called proanthocyanidins (OPCs), may help to prevent or slow the progression of retinopathy. Good sources are grape seed extract and pine bark extract (French maritime pine).
Less Helpful: quercetin, rutin.
Herbs
Bilberry – This relative of the blueberry has several research studies supporting its benefit for both diabetic and hypertensive retinopathy.
Ginkgo biloba – One of the most popular therapeutic herbs in the world, one clinical study showed that ginkgo significantly improved color vision in patients with early diabetic retinopathy.
Less Helpful: butcher\'s broom.
COMMENTS
Treatment includes more closely regulating blood sugar levels (if diabetic) or reducing blood pressure (if hypertensive). Laser treatment (photocoagulation) and surgery (vitrectomy) are also available. If you are a smoker, quit.
References
Jellin, JM, editor. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.
Pillepich, JA. The Nutraceutical Reference Guide, 2005.
FOR RETINOPATHY, CONSIDER THESE SUPPLEMENTS:
● Age-Less Paks
● Anti-Oxidant Formula
● C-500 Complex
● E-400 w/Selenium
● Vessel Max
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