Macular Degeneration is an eye disease affecting the macula (the center of the light-sensitive retina at the back of the eye), causing loss of central vision.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss in adults over age 50. AMD is a loss of central vision that can occur in two forms: “dry” and “wet.” Most people with macular degeneration have the dry form. While there is no specific treatment for dry AMD, studies have shown a potential benefit from vitamin supplements, a Mediterranean diet, protection from the ultraviolet of the sun and cessation of smoking. The less common wet form may respond to intraocular injections of medications if detected and treated early.
Symptoms
In its early stages, the following signs of macular degeneration can go unnoticed:
- The gradual loss of ability to see objects clearly.
- The shape of objects appears distorted.
- Straight lines look wavy or crooked.
- Loss of clear color vision.
- A dark or empty area in the center of vision.
Prevention
- UV protective glasses.
- Cardiovascular health and exercise.
- Properly controlling and monitoring diabetes and hypertension.
- No use of tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, vapes, etc.)
Nutrition and AMD
There’s no substitute for the quality of life good vision offers. Adding certain nutrients to a diet every day—either through foods or supplements—can help save the patient’s vision. In a large human clinical trial, Age Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS2) by the National Eye Institute Researchers, linked lutein and zeaxanthin, omega 3, vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc to reducing the risk of AMD.
