Concerned About Macular Degeneration? Here Are 6 Tips to Lower Your Risk
What Is Macular Degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a deterioration of the macula, the key part of the retina responsible for highly detailed vision and central vision. There are two main types: dry and wet.
Dry AMD occurs when small deposits in the macula called drusen gradually damage the light-sensitive retinal nerve cells, leading to vision loss.
In wet AMD, fragile new blood vessels grow under the macula. When these blood vessels leak blood or fluid, it damages the macula. Although both types of macular degeneration can result in vision loss, wet AMD is the more serious form as it results in faster and greater vision loss.
Who Is At High Risk for Macular Degeneration?
- Age 50+
- A diet high in saturated fat
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- Family history of AMD
- Cardiovascular disease
6 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Macular Degeneration
Stop smoking
If you don't smoke, don't start, and if you smoke — quit. Smokers are 4 times more at risk of developing AMD and typically develop the disease around 10 years earlier than non-smokers.
Wear Quality Sunglasses
Make sure you choose high-quality 100% UVA & UVB filtering sunglasses to block the sun's harmful UV rays. Consider getting polarized lenses, as they filter out reflected light rays more efficiently.
Check Your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure not only harms your heart, but restricts oxygenated blood from reaching your eyes. Have your blood pressure checked regularly.
Eat Healthy and Consider Supplements
Cut out saturated fat, which can raise your blood pressure. Dark, leafy greens are terrific for your eyes. Kale and other greens are full of lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that promote eye health.
Know Your Family History
Up to 70% of AMD cases have a genetic component. People with a parent or sibling with AMD have a greater risk of developing this serious sight-threatening eye disease.
Get Your Eyes Checked Regularly
Everyone should have regular comprehensive eye exams, especially if you're over 50, have a family history of AMD, hypertension or other risk factors.
Your vision is your gateway to the world. To schedule your eye exam, contact Grove City Vision Center in Grove City today.