A few years ago my husband was diagnosed with Macular Degeneration. Macular Degeneration is a progressive eye condition that damages the macula, a small spot near the center of the retina and the part of the eye needed for sharp, central vision, which lets us see objects that are straight ahead. The macula is made up of millions of light-sensing cells that provide sharp, central vision. It is the most sensitive part of the retina, which is located at the back of the eye. When the macula is damaged changes in your central vision may occur including: blurriness, distortion of images or potential loss of central vision.
In some cases, AMD advances so slowly that people notice little change in their vision. In others, the disease progresses faster and may lead to a loss of vision in both eyes. There are two forms of AMD, dry and wet. About 90% of people diagnosed with AMD have dry AMD. Early AMD always starts out as dry, but in about 10% of cases it can develop into wet AMD. Currently, no treatment exists for early AMD, which in many people shows no symptoms or loss of vision, but to maintain eye health and reduce risk of progression of the disease:
Eat healthy
A high fat diet can lead to fatty plaque deposits in the eye, increasing the risk of AMD. You might be able to slow progression of AMD by eating a balanced diet rich with fruits, green leafy vegetables, and healthy fats.
I’m including Healthy Eating tips and supplement tips on this site. Although this is by no means medical advise, its tools we’ve run across while combating progression of Dry Macular Degeneration.
Supplements
Researchers at the National Eye Institute found that daily intake of certain high-dose vitamins and mineral may slow progression.
Control your weight, cholesterol, and blood pressure
Obesity, high levels of cholesterol and high blood pressure may contribute to the development of advanced AMD.
Protect your eyes when outside
Overexposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can speed up progression of AMD. Its important to wear sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection.
If you smoke, quit!
Smoking can harm your eyes, just like it can harm your body. Cigarette smoke may damage the retina and can reduce blood flow in eye tissue, potentially leading to AMD and increasing the risk of progression.
See your eye care professional regularly
Changes in eye health may occur without notice. Only a qualified eye care professional can detect these changes so it is important to keep all of your scheduled eye appointments. Early detection increases the treatment options available to you.
