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Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is an
acquired
degeneration of the central portion of the retina (back
layer of the eye). It causes a loss of central
vision with side vision usually spared. Nearly 20 to
30 percent of people age 65 and over develop AMD.
The dry form, accounting for 90% of cases, is
characterized by deposits and pigmentary changes in the
retina that cause general loss of vision. Currently
there is no definite treatment for this form of AMD.
In the "wet" form of the disease, abnormal blood
vessels grow beneath the retina and cause leakage into the
central retina. Vision loss can be rapid and
severe. The progression of wet AMD can be slowed
with inject able drugs, laser surgery, and other emerging techniques.
Much research is currently being done in this area.
 Certain early signs of
AMD may be detected in an eye
examination or risk factors identified. You are more
likely to develop AMD if you are Caucasian, over 65,
farsighted, have a lightly colored eye, or
have a close family member with macular
degeneration. People who have
cardiovascular disease, smoke, or have
increased exposure to ultraviolet light are
also at increased risk. Research is
ongoing to determine how nutrition
plays a role in vision loss. Preliminary indications
suggest that a diet rich in antioxidants and omega 3 fatty
acids, may slow the
progression of vision loss or perhaps prevent the
development of the disease. These vitamins are
present in green, leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale,
or chard. The AREDS Studies found the antioxidants
zinc, copper, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, & reduce
vision loss from and by 25%. Lutein
and Zeayanthin has recently been
found to increase the protective pigment layer of the
retina and may offer additional benefits.
 Further
research should offer more definite proof of these
benefits. New treatments are also on the horizon
including radiation, angiogenic drugs which stop the
growth of new blood vessels, and gene therapies.
What can you do to reduce your risk of developing
vision loss from AMD? Stop smoking, maintain normal
blood pressure, protect your eyes from ultraviolet with
sunglasses or ultraviolet filtering lenses, and have an
annual eye examination. Eat a balanced diet rich in
green leafy vegetables & cold water fish and ask your doctor about antioxidant
supplements. See your eye doctor immediately if you
notice waviness of lines, blurred vision, or any
distortion in your central vision.
Be sure to ask us for the latest information
at your next eye examination.
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