Macular degeneration is referred to as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This is a common eye condition that mostly affects older people. It occurs when the macula, the central part of our retina, begins to damage. The macula is responsible for our central vision. It allows us to see fine details, recognize faces, read, drive, and perform daily tasks that need sharp, straight-ahead vision.
There are two main types of Macular Degeneration. Namely, dry AMD and wet AMD.
- Dry AMD is the more common form, accounting for about 80-90% of cases. It develops slowly over time as the light-sensitive cells in the macula gradually break down.
- Wet AMD, though less common among people. It is more severe and can cause rapid vision loss. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula and leak fluid or blood.
How Macular Degeneration Affects Our Eyes to See Clearly
Macular degeneration impacts our vision in several ways:
- Central vision loss – As the macula gets damaged, our central vision becomes blurry, distorted, or dark. This makes it difficult for individuals to focus on objects present in front.
- Difficulty in understanding small details: Reading small print, recognizing faces, or performing tasks that require clarity becomes challenging.
- Color perception changes: Some people with AMD may experience a reduced ability to identify certain colors or notice that colors appear less vibrant.
- Contrast sensitivity: Identifying objects in low-light condition becomes more difficult.
- Straight lines appear wavy: In wet AMD, fluid buildup can cause straight lines to appear bent or wavy.
Who is at High Risk for Macular Degeneration?
Some individuals are at higher risk for developing macular degeneration. Risk factors include age, particularly those over 50 as well as a family history of the disease. Lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity also increase the chances to experience macular degeneration.
Conditions such as cardiovascular disease and a diet lacking in essential nutrients can increase risk. Awareness of these factors help individuals to take measures to preserve their eye health and avoid causing macular degeneration.
Treatment for Macular Degeneration?
Treatment for Macular Degeneration focuses on managing the condition more effectively. Nutrition plays a key role in slowing its progression. Diets rich in nutrients such as lutein, vitamin E, vitamin C, zeaxanthin, and zinc can help reduce the risk of macular degeneration.
At Sanjeevan, we provide our patients several non-surgical and natural treatments that don’t involve any antibiotics, medicine, steroids or lasik. Our non-surgical and holistic treatment approach prioritizes individuals safety and long term health.
Our treatment at Sanjeevan aims to improve the health of the choroid that supplies blood to the retina. For dry macular degeneration, our approach increases blood flow and oxygenation to the choroid and retina which helps clear and prevent the buildup of cellular debris known as ‘drusen’ to improve central vision.
In wet macular degeneration, our treatment focuses on reducing the growth of abnormal blood vessels from the choroid behind the retina, preventing leakage of fluid and bleeding. Our holistic approach also addresses cholesterol levels and hypertension associated with age-related macular degeneration, and includes antioxidant supplements to combat oxidative stress linked to the macular degeneration development.
Conclusion
Understanding macular degeneration is crucial. This condition affects central vision through gradual damage to the macula, affecting daily tasks such as reading and recognizing faces.
Risk factors such as age, genetics, and lifestyle choices play significant roles. Non-surgical treatments that include nutritional interventions and holistic approaches, aim to slow its progression and preserve vision.
By raising awareness and embracing effective treatments, patients can better manage macular degeneration and maintain their visual health over time.