Advanced Naturopathic Case Taking: Naturopathic Evaluation Tools: Eyes and Face

Question 1

Pupil

Answer 1

The iris governs pupil size and is itself controlled by the autonomic nervous system. As a result, the pupil can be useful to indicate autonomic activity in the body.

Question 2

Contracted pupil:

Answer 2

• Parasympathetic dominance; ‘inward tension’ / internalised / cautious / reserved (slow responses).
• Acetylcholine is the dominant neurotransmitter.

Question 3

Dilated pupil:

Answer 3

• Sympathetic nervous system dominance, possible adrenal exhaustion, (fast responses —fight and flight).
• Adrenaline is the dominant neurotransmitter.

Question 4

Eye Nutrient deficiency:
Dry eyes:

Answer 4

• Vitamin A, EFAs.

Question 5

Eye Nutrient deficiency:
Night blindness:

Answer 5

• Vitamin A, Zinc.

Question 6

Eye Nutrient deficiency:
Pale conjunctiva:

Answer 6

• Iron.

Question 7

Eye Nutrient deficiency:
Blue sclera:

Answer 7

• Iron.

Question 8

Eye Nutrient deficiency:
Photophobia

Answer 8

• Vitamin B2 B3, Beta-carotene, Vitamin A, Zinc.

Question 9

Eye Nutrient deficiency:
Lack of lashes/brows:

Answer 9

Copper
Thinning eyebrows may indicate that the thyroid gland needs support.

Question 10

Nutrient deficiencies: Facial Skin - Dermatitis

Answer 10

Dermatitis (nasolabial, eyelids, in ears):
* Vitamin B2.

Question 11

Nutrient deficiencies:
Facial Skin - Hyperpigmentation

Answer 11

Hyperpigmentation of mouth, cheek and eye areas:
* Protein.

Question 12

Nutrient deficiency: Facial Skin - Inelastic skin

Answer 12

Inelastic skin:
* Vitamin C, EFAs, Copper.

Question 13

Nutrient deficiency: Hair - loss

Answer 13

Hair loss:
* Iron, Protein, Biotin, Endocrine (e.g. hypothyroidism).

Question 14

Nutrient deficiency: Hair - Brittle, dry, lacklustre

Answer 14

Brittle, dry and lacklustre:
* Iron, Protein, EFAs.

Question 15

Nutrient deficiency: Other -
Perifollicular hyperkeratosis:

Answer 15

Perifollicular hyperkeratosis:
* Vitamin A, EFAs.