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Important Facts
MACULAR DEGENERATION: An eye
condition in which the macula, a
sensitive area in the retina
responsible for central and detail
vision, is damaged, often causing
loss of central vision.
TYPES: "Dry" Form - usually
progresses slowly and causes
central vision loss. "Wet" Form -
rarer, and more severe. May
progress rapidly causing
significant central vision loss.
WHO GETS IT: Most common in people
over 60, but can appear as early
as age 40. It is the most common
cause of severe vision loss among
people over 65, and, as life
expectancy increases, the disease
is becoming an increasingly
significant problem.
CAUSES: There is no conclusive
proof as to what causes it,
however, some scientists believe
heredity may play a part, as may
UV light exposure and
malnutrition.
PREVENTION: Although there is no
hard evidence as to how to prevent
it, these steps may help:
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Regular eye exams by your eye
care specialist, who is
specially trained to detect many
vision-threatening conditions
even before you develop
symptoms. The earlier the
problems are detected, the
better chance of preventing
vision loss.
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Protection from UV-A and UV-B
rays. Some studies have
suggested that prolonged or
frequent exposure to UV-A and
UV-B rays may be a factor in
this and other eye conditions,
so always wear your sunglasses
that block 99 to 100% of UV rays
when outdoors.
-
Proper nutrition. Although there
is no concrete evidence that
nutrition plays a role in it, a
healthy diet can't hurt and can
prevent many other health
problems. Some eye care
specialists may recommend
vitamins or minerals to
supplement your diet.
TREATMENT: There is usually no
treatment for the "dry" form, but
low vision rehabilitation can help
those with significant vision loss
to maintain an excellent quality
of life. Laser surgery can
sometimes treat the "wet" form and
low vision rehabilitation can help
those with vision loss.
macular
degeneration links |
supplements
containing high-doses of
Anti-Oxidants and Zinc
reduced the likelihood
of progression of intermediate
and advanced degrees of
macular degeneration by 25%!