Loss of vision can result from a number of different conditions or factors. Some of the most common include diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and cataracts. Some less common but very real conditions that can lead to vision loss are retinis pigmentosa and macular degeneration as well.

Other conditions that can include vision loss:

Uveitis - This condition is characterized by an inflammation of the iris, choroid and ciliary body, which all make up the middle layer of the eye. Many times, this condition is caused by an underlying disease like an infection or rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms consist primarily of diminished or hazy vision but pain and redness may also be present. Anytime a blockage of a blood vessel that serves the retina - such as in the case of a blood clot - takes place, vision loss can occur as well.

Retinal detachment - In this case, the loss of vision is compared to having a curtain drawn across the field of vision. "Sparks", flashes of light or an increase in the number of black floaters in the field of vision are also common.

Toxic amblyopia - With this condition, the optic nerve becomes damaged due to a toxic reaction. When this happens, a small "hole" which gets larger over a period of time is created in the field of vision. As the problem progresses, blindness may occur. In most cases, both eyes are affected and the condition is prevalent among smokers. For that reason, it is sometimes called tobacco mblyopia. Those who consume excessive amounts of alcohol or come into contact with methanol, digitalis, chloramphenicol, lead and other chemicals are also at higher risk of developing toxic amblyopia.

Inflammation of the optic nerve - An inflammation such as this, which may occur as a result of a systemic illness or infection can be another cause of vision loss. In many cases however, the exact cause cannot be determined. With this condition, it's usually only one eye that is affected but sometimes it can affect both and vision loss in various degrees may occur over the course of a few days.

The regimen outlined below includes a holistic approach to maintaining healthy eyes, therefore preventing vision loss:

The eyes, like every other part of the body needed to be nourished and cared for properly. Eating a healthy diet which contains sufficient amounts of vitamins & minerals is essential in maintaining healthy eyes.

Vegetables like carrots, green vegetables, watercress, cauliflower, seeds, broccoli and raw cabbage should all be included in the diet.

Drink fresh carrot juice. This can help treat & alleviate some eye problems.

Sugar & white four should be eliminated from the diet.

Always protect the eyes from dangerous levels of UV exposure by wearing UV protective sunglasses when in the sun for long periods of time.

The following herbs and supplements are also beneficial in maintaining healthy eyes:

Free-form amino acid complex (take as directed on label) - Provides needed protein.

Glutathione (500 mg daily on an empty stomach) - Powerful antioxidant that protect the lenses of the eyes.

High-Potency Multivitamin and mineral complex (take as directed on label) - Provides are necessary nutrients in the proper balance.

Vitamin A (25,000 IU daily) Essential for proper eye function. Shields the eye from free radicals. Use emulsion form for easy assimilation.

Vitamin B complex (100 mg of each major B vitamin twice daily) - Needed for intracellular eye metabolism.

Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids (2,000 mg 3 times daily) - Antioxidant that reduces intraocular pressure.

Vitamin E (200 IU daily) - Important in healing and immunity.

Zinc (50 mg daily) - Deficiency has been linked to retinal detachment.

Cayenne, red raspberry leaves and bayberry bark when taken by mouth are beneficial.

Bilberry extract - Studies have shown this herb to improve normal and night vision.

* Important notes: The recommended doses are for those over age 18 unless otherwise stated. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.