Macular Degeneration: Treatment That Can Slow the Progression of the Disease

Macular degeneration is a disease of the eyes that does not yet have a cure. It causes vision loss, and it occurs when the back of the retina begins to deteriorate. While early macular degeneration may not produce symptoms, as the disease progresses, the person may experience wavy lines or blurry vision. When the disease is advanced, the person loses their central vision. While peripheral vision remains intact, the person is considered legally blind. Eye exams at any stage can identify the disease, and treatment can help slow the progression of macular degeneration. With dietary and lifestyle changes, you can help your eyes remain as healthy as possible, even when diagnosed with this debilitating disease.

Eye Vitamins for Macular Degeneration

While there is no cure for macular degeneration, patients who took a formula for an Age-Related Eye Disease Study, AREDS, found that the progression of macular degeneration was slowed by 25%. The formula includes Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Betacarotene, Zinc, and Copper. While this formula did not prevent macular degeneration, the nutrients provided to the eyes appears to have helped with vision loss quite significantly.

Changing Your Diet 

You can make dietary changes that will have a positive impact on your overall health, and on the health of your eyes. Leafy vegetables, fish, and foods that are low in saturated fat can help you maintain better eye health. Patients who maintain a diet high in dark leafy greens and vegetables are less likely to develop macular degeneration, while those who eat diets high in saturated fat have an increased risk.

Habits That Help Your Eyesight

Your eyesight matters, and you can make changes in your lifestyle that will have a direct effect on your eye health. If you're a smoker, it's time to stop. Smoking causes all kinds of health problems, and it can make macular degeneration progress more rapidly. You should also work exercise into your weekly schedule, and focus on light to moderate exercise three times a week. Focus on improving your overall health, and your eyes will become healthier to.

When you focus on your health, you will have a better chance slowing down the progression of most diseases. A healthy diet, moderate exercise, and stress reduction techniques can help you live a fuller, more active long into your senior years. The better you take care of yourself now, the healthier you will be as you age.


Share