 Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) 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 ARMD.
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 ARMD.
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 ARMD can be slowed
with laser surgery and other emerging techniques.
Much research is currently being done in this area.
 Certain early signs of ARMD may be detected in an eye
examination or risk factors identified. You are more
likely to develop ARMD 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 if nutrition
plays a role in vision loss. Preliminary indications
suggest that a diet rich in antioxidants 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. Vitamin supplements containing these
antioxidants are available. Lutein 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 ARMD? 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 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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