Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in individuals over 50. AMD affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed, and central vision. As we age, the risk of developing macular degeneration increases, but the good news is that macular degeneration prevention is possible with proactive steps.
What is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration comes in two main forms:
- Dry AMD: This form occurs when small deposits called drusen accumulate in the macula, damaging the retinal cells and leading to vision loss.
- Wet AMD: In this more serious form, new blood vessels grow under the macula. These vessels leak blood and fluid, causing more rapid and severe damage to the macula.
Wet AMD is more aggressive and causes faster vision loss than dry AMD. However, both types can severely impact your quality of life if left untreated.
Who Is at Risk for Macular Degeneration?
Certain factors can increase your likelihood of developing AMD, including:
- Being 50 or older
- Having a family history of AMD
- A diet high in saturated fat
- Smoking or high blood pressure
- Obesity and cardiovascular disease
While these risk factors cannot be controlled, there are many steps you can take to reduce your risk and slow the progression of macular degeneration.
6 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Macular Degeneration
1. Stop Smoking
If you smoke, quitting can significantly lower your risk of developing AMD. Smokers are four times more likely to develop macular degeneration, and they often develop it much earlier than non-smokers. If you don’t smoke, stay smoke-free!
2. Wear Sunglasses with UV Protection
UV rays from the sun can damage your eyes over time, increasing the risk of AMD. Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Polarized lenses are even better as they reduce glare and improve visual comfort, especially in reflective environments like water, snow, or the road.
3. Monitor Your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure not only affects your heart but can also restrict blood flow to your eyes. Regularly check your blood pressure, and if you have hypertension, manage it with your doctor’s guidance to lower the risk of developing AMD.
4. Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet is key to macular degeneration prevention. Reduce your intake of saturated fats and replace them with healthier alternatives like olive oil or plant-based oils. Eat more oily fish, such as sardines and salmon, which are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
Leafy greens such as kale are packed with antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are particularly beneficial for eye health.
5. Know Your Family History
Up to 70% of AMD cases have a genetic component. If you have a family history of AMD, your risk is higher. It’s essential to inform your eye doctor so they can monitor your eyes more closely and detect early signs of the condition.
6. Get Regular Eye Exams
One of the best ways to prevent macular degeneration from affecting your vision is to have regular eye exams. Early detection can lead to better management and treatments that slow down the progression of AMD.
A typical eye exam for AMD includes:
- Visual Acuity test
- Pupil Dilation to inspect the retina
- Digital Retina Imaging or OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) for 3D imaging of the retina
- Amsler Grid to detect changes in vision
Take Action Now: Protect Your Vision
Your vision is precious, and maintaining it should be a top priority. With the right steps, you can reduce your risk of macular degeneration and preserve your vision for years to come. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Eyes on Group today to assess your eye health.
Frequently Asked Questions with Dr. Nicholas Feucht
What percentage of the population has macular degeneration?
An estimated 8.7% of the global population has macular degeneration. By 2040, it’s expected that the number will rise to 288 million.
Do injections work for wet macular degeneration?
Yes, anti-VEGF injections are commonly used to treat wet AMD. They help reduce fluid leakage and bleeding, preserving the remaining vision.