Chronic Stress Raises Internal Eye Pressure, Which Can Result in GlaucomaStress produces adrenaline, the “fight or flight” drug, which is useful in times of danger. However, chronic adrenaline production can leave you feeling exhausted, with mood changes (irritability or depression), disrupted sleep, and a compromised immune system. Adrenaline also raises the intraocular pressure that causes glaucoma. No Cure for Chronic Stress There is no medical “cure” for chronic stress. Most drugs that deal with stress relieve its symptoms: headache remedies, antidepressants, drugs for ulcers, high blood pressure vasodilators, and sedatives for anxiety. To cure stress, you will have to change your lifestyle and improve your habits. Eliminating smoking and reducing your alcohol intake will both lower physical stress, as will lowering your fat intake. However, things like high-pressure jobs, hour-long commutes to work by car, and not communicating with your spouse or partner will all contribute to increased stress levels. If you are at risk for glaucoma, you need to work at reducing your stress levels. Take a job closer to home, move closer to your work, work a different shift, or work on flex-time so that you don’t have to drive to and from work during rush hour. Consider changing jobs if you have a high-stress position. If you are a person who holds everything in, a therapist may help you overcome your fears of communicating. Use This Anti-Stress Inhaler Find a small glass vial with a tight-fitting lid. Clean it thoroughly. Put one teaspoon of salt and five (5) drops of essential oils into the vial and cover. Open and sniff whenever you feel stressed. Use a combination of any two of the following essential oils: lavender, Roman or German chamomile, bergamot, rose, geranium, lemon balm, and clary sage). Please note: Not for internal use. |