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 central vision. There are two main types:

• Dry AMD occurs when small deposits in the macula called drusen gradually damage the light-sensitive retinal nerve cells, leading to vision loss.
• Wet AMD involves fragile new blood vessels growing under the macula that leak blood or fluid, resulting in faster and greater vision loss.

Who Is At High Risk for Macular Degeneration?

Risk factors include being over 50, smoking, a diet high in saturated fat, high blood pressure, obesity, family history of AMD, cardiovascular disease, and light-colored eyes.

6 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Macular Degeneration

Stop Smoking

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

Choose high-quality 100% UVA & UVB filtering sunglasses. Consider polarized lenses, which filter out reflected light rays more efficiently.

Check Your Blood Pressure

High blood pressure restricts oxygenated blood from reaching your eyes. Have your blood pressure checked regularly.

Eat Healthy and Consider Supplements

Cut out saturated fat and eat dark, leafy greens like kale and spinach, which are full of lutein and zeaxanthin. If you have dry AMD, ask your optometrist about antioxidant supplements that can slow AMD's progression.

Know Your Family History

Up to 70% of AMD cases have a genetic component. If you have a parent or sibling with AMD, get your eyes tested frequently.

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.

To schedule your eye exam with St. Clairsville Eyecare in St. Clairsville today, call (740) 695-0444.