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DESCRIPTION
Xerophthalmia is a major cause of preventable blindness in children the world over and still remains a problem in the developing countries. In India alone, there are over 200,000 children blinded from this condition. It is most commonly occurs in children during the ages of 3 to 6 years of age. It is an inflammation of the cornea (the clear covering of the eye) that is associated with nutritional deficiency resulting in general malnutrition, diarrhea and especially a deficiency of vitamin A. A deficiency of vitamin A weakens the cornea and if caught before the cornea is perforated, high doses of vitamin A and a change in diet can prevent further damage and allow the eye to heal. If discovered too late, the child will be permanently blind.
Although xerophthalmia is most prevalent with children, it can also occur in adults with severe malnutrition or in other health problems in which lack of vitamin A in their diets is a factor.
SYMPTOMS
Night blindness may occur and is often an early manifestation of the disorder. The conjunctiva and the cornea becomes dry (Xerosis) with the development of characteristic triangular or oval spots, called Bitot's spots.
Xerosis of the cornea is seen initially as a mild haziness inferiorly. This is followed by corneal ulceration and/or infection with full thickness dissolution known as keratomalacia - there may be extrusion of the intraocular contents.
TREATMENT
Vitamin A therapy and a protein-rich diet are essential.
Topical antibiotics are given to prevent secondary bacterial infection. Keratomalacia is irreversible and causes permanent corneal scarring.
Diet supplements rich in vitamin A or beta-carotene should be provided in high risk areas to prevent the condition. High doses of vitamin A should be avoided during pregnancy because of the risk of vitamin A embryopathy.
WHO International
Vitamin A Treatment for Xerophthamia
The following signs and symptoms of Xerophthalmia indicate vitamin A deficiency:
1. Night Blindness Difficulty seeing in the dark. 2. Xerosis (Dry Eyes) The white of the eye loses its shine and begins to wrinkle. 3. Bitot's Spots Patches of little gray bubbles on the whites of the eye. 4. Corneal Ulceration Dullness or damage to the cornea. 5. Keratomalcia Soft or bulging cornea.
XEROPHTHALMIA
EMERGENCY PATIENT CARE BY A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER
In order to treat or prevent a secondary bacterial infection, which would compound corneal damage, apply an antibiotic eye ointment, e.g. tetracycline or chloramphenicol. Protect the eye with an eye shield in order to prevent trauma. In the case of young children, it may be necessary to restrain arm movements while applying the shield.
Vitamin A must be administered orally immediately upon diagnosis.
For treatment of xerophthalmia, follow the schedule as given below or according to a health care provider's recommendations.
TO GIVE VITAMIN A TO SMALL CHILDREN:
When giving vitamin A, cut open a capsule at the narrow end. Squeeze the correct amount of vitamin A into the child's mouth. If a child spits up most of the vitamin A immediately, give one more dose (but record only a single dose). Do not ask a child to swallow a capsule. It is preferable that the child receive the dose from the health worker, although in some cases it may be given to the mother to be given later. Throw away any half-used capsule - it is too messy to try and use again.
Discard all used vitamin A capsules in a plastic bag or container. All used capsules should be disposed of safely (buried or burned), in order to avoid children or animals accidentally ingesting the capsules.
Record the treatment with vitamin A on the child's health card.
Parents should be aware that:1. Three doses of vitamin A supplement must be given for best results.
2. Improvements after taking vitamin A supplements may take several days to become evident.
Xerophthalmia children with severe protein-energy malnutrition need to be referred to a hospital and carefully monitored. Their vitamin A status is unstable and may rapidly worsen, even when treated with recommended doses.
MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Vitamin A Therapy Introduction: Giving Vitamin A To Sick Children
WOMEN WITH XEROPHTHALMIA
Women of reproductive age with night blindness or Bitot's spots should be treated with a daily oral dose of 5,000-10,000 IU of vitamin A for at least 4 weeks. Such a daily dose should never exceed 10,000 IU, although a weekly dose not exceeding 25,000 IU may be substituted.
All women of reproductive age, whether or not pregnant, who exhibit severe signs of xerophthalmia (i.e. acute corneal lesions) should be treated with three dose treatment.
HOLISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS & NUTRITION
CONSIDERATIONS
Increase your intake of vitamin A. See Vitamin A and the Carotenoids for more information about this vitamin supplement.
Avoid eyestrain and smoke-filled rooms.
Drink fresh carrot juice. This can help to prevent or alleviate some eye problems. Taking two tablespoons of cod liver oil daily can also be helpful. Both are rich in vitamin A.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
Unless otherwise specified, the dosages recommended here are for adults. For a child between the ages of 12 and 17, reduce the dose to 3/4 the recommended amount. For a child between 6 and 12 years of age, use 1/2 the recommended dosage, and for a child under the age of 6, use 1/4 the recommended amount.
EYE CARE SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS
Information, supplements and products for eye-related problems including xerophtalmia and Bitot's spots.
Alfa Max, Alfalfa Extract, Nature's Way, 525 mg, 100 Caps
Nature's Way Alfa-Max Alfalfa Extract capsules is a 10x extract of fresh green Alfalfa leaves.Antioxidant Formula, Antioxidant Supplement, All Natural, Nature's Way, 100 Tabs
Nature's Way Antioxidant Formula Antioxidant Supplement is 100% natural.Beta Carotene (Natural Dunaliella Salina), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 25,000 IU, 100 Softgels
Nature's Way Beta Carotene is 100% all natural from Dunaliella Salina.CamoClear Soothing Eye Wash, Herbal Eye Wash, CamoCare, 10 Single Use Droppers
CamoClear Soothing Herbal Eye wash gives you instant, natural and long lasting relief for dry, tired or irritated eyes, due to dust, pollen, pollution, smoke irritants, sun glare, wind, swimming, air conditioning/heating and computer work.Clear Eye Herbal Tea, 20 Tea Bags
To nurture the eye and pacify the nervous system, protect retina, and improve eyesight.Clear Eye & Sharp Ear, TCM Formula, Shanze Xiaozhi, 60 Caps
Clear Eye & Sharp Ear Chinese Formulas are made of extracts from astragalus root, pueraria root, seashore vitex, common peony root, cimicifuge, phellodendron, licorice, cnidium, Chinese angelica root (Dong Quai) and ginseng.Digestive Enzymes, 750 mg, 100 Caps
Since cooking destroys many of the digestive enzymes in food, taking plant fiber-based digestive enzymes aids in digesting even the heaviest meal.Dry Eye Relief Eye Drops, Homeopathic, 0.33 fl. oz.
Eye Doctor recommended Similasan Eye Drops for dry, red eyes stimulate the eye's natural ability to fight dryness and clear redness due to smog, stress, age, contact lens wear, etc.Echinacea Root Complex, Nature's Way, 180 Caps
Echinacea Root Complex helps promote general well-being during the cold and flu season and support the immune system.Echinacea Tincture, Nature's Way, Alcohol Free, 1 fl. oz.
Modern scientific studies now validate Echinacea's traditional usage as a topical agent to help the body repair skin wounds, and internally to enhance the immune system.Eyebright Herb Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Eyebright herb helpful for sore, itchy eyes. May be taken internally or used externally as an eyewash or compress.EyeFactor HAÖ for Healthy Vision with HA, Hyalogic, 120 Count
Hyaluronic acid makes up 95% of the fluid inside the eye. Acts as a shock absorber for the eye and also serves to transport nutrients into the eye.Eye Support Formula With Bilberry, Lutein & Antioxidants, NOW Foods, 60 Caps
NOW "Health Care Provider Recommended" Eye Support Formula eye supplement offers a full range of antioxidant nutrients which may aid in maintaining some visual functions with Lutein and Bilberry.Fisol Fish Oil Supplement, EPA DHA, Enteric Coated, Nature's Way, 500 mg, 90 Softgels
Fisol, enteric coated, fish oil supplement delivers 30% EPA and 20% DHA. The unique coating withstands stomach acid so Fisol dissolves in the small intestine and maximizes the body's absorption of Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids.Garlicin HC, Healthy Circulation Formula With Odor Free Garlic Supplement, Nature's Way, 90 Enteric Coated Tabs
Garlicin HC garlic supplement supports cardiovascular health with the help of hawthorn, cayenne and vitamin E.Goldenseal Root Tincture (Hydrastis Canadensis), 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Uses include Adrenal Glands; Eye Problems; Fainting; Gallbladder; Gallstones; Nephritis; Pancreatic Disorders; Peritonitis; Poison Ivy/Oak; Prostate Problems; Psoriasis; Pyorrhea; Quinsy,;Scarlet Fever; Spinal Meningitis (sometimes referred to simply as Meningitis); Spleen; WoundsGrapefruit Seed Extract Liquid Concentrate, 4 fl. oz.
Grapefruit Seed Extract may be used topically as an antiseptic wound cleaner and to treat infections of the skin. Internally, the concentrate is useful as a supportive treatment for a wide variety of ailments.Irwin Naturals Immune Shield, Immune System Support, 100 GelCaps
Irwin Naturals multi-herb complex addresses two key areas, immune support and bacterial/viral control.Lutein Esters, NOW Foods, 20 mg, 60 Softgels
Lutein is the active carotenoid in this potent, natural source antioxidant.Marshmallow Root Tincture, 100% organic, 2 fl. oz.
The primary use of Marshmallow root is to relieve digestive and respiratory problems, such as coughs, colds, sore throats and asthma.Multi-Mineral Optimum Complex, Nature's Way, 100 Caps
Nature's Way Multi Mineral Optimum Complex offers a complete carefully dosed blend of minerals vital to the body. This multi Mineral Optimum Complex provides nutritional support for normal bone development, muscle function, reproduction and metabolism.Multi-Vitamin Without Iron, Nature's Way, 100 Caps
The vitamins and minerals in this Multi-Vitamin without Iron play many important roles in the body: antioxidants to protect fats, cells and DNA, coenzyme precursors for energy production and metabolism, and cofactors for hormones and enzymes which regulate body processes.Nature's Way Ginkgold Eyes Plus Lutein, 20 mg, Vegetarian, Eye Supplement, 60 Caps
Nature's Way Ginkgold eye supplement supports visual function and is the only Ginkgo extract shown to stimulate activity in all areas of the brainOnce Daily Multi-Vitamin With Iron, All Natural, Lactose Free, Nature's Way, 100 Tabs
Nature's Way Daily Multi Vitamin with Iron provides many of the essential nutrients that modern diets may lack. They are useful for protection, growth and maintenance of body systems as they age.Passion Flower Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Passion Flower is a powerful relaxant to the nervous system important in the treatments of anxiety, tension and insomnia.Red clover Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Red clover is used in the treatment of coughs, bronchitis, and weak lungs.Red Raspberry Tea, NOW Foods, 30 Tea Bags
NOW Foods delicious Red Raspberry Tea will engage your senses.Selenium, 100% Natural, 200 mcg, 100 Caps
Selenium is an essential component of glutathione, the body's most potent natural antioxidant system. It is a popular choice in many antioxidant regimens.Silver Biotics Liquid, Silver Supplement, 8 fl. oz.
Silver Biotics was tested by researchers and was found to kill every strain of bacteria that it was tested against and that these bacteria, many of which have become resistant to antibiotics, cause many human ailments.Taurine, Free Form, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps
Taurine is a conditionally essential amino acid which is not utilized in protein synthesis, but is mainly found free in most tissues, especially throughout the nervous system.Visi Clear With Lutein, Bilberry, Zeaxanthin & Lycopene, 60 Caps
Visi Clear Eye Vitamin with Lutein and Bilberry is one of the few products that provide both lutein and whole kale and Zeaxanthin, another powerful carotenoid, to maximize antioxidant activity.Vision Formula With Lutein & Bilberry, Eye Supplement, 60 Caps
Vision formula with Lutein & Bilberry Eye Supplement supports normal eye function by utilizing Lutein, a key carotenoid found in fruits and vegetables, which protects the retina by blocking harmful blue light.Vitamin A, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 100 Softgels
Nature's Way Vitamin A is 100% natural from fish liver oil. It contains no artificial ingredients or preservatives.Vitamin B-100 Complex, With Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 631 mg, 100 Caps
A complete Vitamin B complex of 8 essential vitamins. B Vitamins are precursors of coenzymes involved in the conversion of cellular energy, manufacture of hormones and proteins, and repair and maintenance of nerve structures.Vitamin B-12 Supplements & Products
An assortment of various B-12 products.Vitamin C 1000 With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 VCaps
Nature's Way Vitamin C With Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.Zinc Chelate, 100% Natural, Zinc Supplement, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps
Nature's Way chelated Zinc supplement is 100% natural chelated with an advanced amino acid complex for superior absorption.Zinc Lozenges With Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges
Nature's Way Zinc lozenge boosts cold season defense with zinc, widely recognized as an important nutritional support during the cold season, and echinacea pupurea, clinically shown to support the immune system, and Vitamin C, a vitally important vitamin for general health maintenance.
Herbal Remedies: Eye Problem Information
Herbal Remedies: Bitot's Spots Supplements, Information & Products
Herbal Remedies: Bitot's Spots Information
Herbal Remedies: Dry Eye Syndrome Supplements, Information & Products
Herbal Remedies: Dry Eye Syndrome Information
Herbal Remedies: Enzymes & Digestive Enzyme Supplements
LINKS
Vitamin A deficiency & the prevalence of xerophthalmia in Southern Rwanda
A prevalence of study of xerophthalmia in the Philippines
Malnutrition & xerophthalmia in rural communities of Ethiopia
BOOKS
Nutritional Blindness: Xerophthalmia and Keratomalacia
- By Alfred Sommer
NOTIFY YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or a family member (such as a child) is having problems distinguishing colors or find colors confusing. This member may need to be tested for color blindness.
You or a family member are having problems with vision and/or you suspect an infection. Call your health care provider immediately if you experience severe eye pain or a sudden change in your vision, such as loss of vision or double vision.
You have any increase of symptoms. You may need frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription. If you have blurred or double vision that develops slowly; are having a problem seeing because of daytime glare or have difficulty driving at night because of glare from headlights, you need to see your health care provider.
You have any unexpected or unusual symptoms. There may be underlying health issues that need to be addressed.
Are having vision problems that are affecting your ability to perform daily activities.
Call your child's health care provider if your baby does not look directly at or respond readily to faces or large, colorful objects by age 2 to 3 months or if your child scowls, squints, or shields his or her eyes more than expected when in sunlight, or light seems to hurt your child's eyes.
You and your family members should have your eyesight checked regularly by your health care provider to rule out any problems and to receive a prescription for contacts or eyeglasses, if they are needed. Preserve you vision... it is very important.
TYPES OF EYE PROBLEMS & DISORDERS
Maintaining Healthy Eyes
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HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
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