Macular Degeneration
Macular Degeneration is defined as a chronic disease that affects more than 10 million people in the US and is one of the leading causes of vision loss in Americans over the age of 60. There are two types:
Dry: This can be treated with nutritional/lifestyle changes
Wet: Requires either multiple injections in the affected eye or laser from a retinal specialist
What is Macular Degeneration?
It is a deterioration of the central vision area (loss of pigment) in the area of the retina known as the macula.
What is the Macula?
This is the area of the retina where we have photo-receptors that give us clear, sharp vision.
What causes Macular Degeneration?
Oxidation created by a lack of chemicals that are necessary for good macular health.
Who is at risk?
• People with a family history of the disease
• Smokers
• Poor UV protection (little to no sun wear)
• Frequent sun exposure
Are there tests to detect Macular Degeneration earlier now?
• Optical Coherence Tomography using high speed ultrasound waves
• Digital Retinal Photography
• Dilated examination of the eye using special lenses to see the macula
• DNA testing (swab check)
• Macular pigment testing
What are the risk factors?
• Over the age of 50
• Females are at higher risk
• High body mass index (overweight)
• Light skin & light eye color
• Poor health - i.e. Diabetes, heart issues
• Poor nutrition
What are some preventative measures?
• Smoking - Limit to very minimal to fully quitting
• Wear quality prescription sun wear, not discount or department store fashion sunglasses
• Yearly dilated examination with special testing when necessary
• Eat nutritious foods and vitamins
• Monitor your health - heave your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar evaluated often
