Why is Early Detection of AMD Important?
This month is Age Related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month. AMD is an issue with your retina…specifically your macula. The macula is the part of your retina where your central and color vision lives.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, AMD causes you to lose your central vision. You cannot see fine details, whether you are looking at something close or far. But your peripheral (side) vision will still be normal. For instance, imagine you are looking at a clock with hands. With AMD, you might see the clock’s numbers but not the hands. AMD is very common. It is a leading cause of vision loss in Early Detection of AMD 50 years or older.
Who Is at Risk for AMD?
You are more likely to develop AMD if you:
- eat a diet high in saturated fat (found in foods like meat, butter, and cheese)
- are overweight
- smoke cigarettes
- are over 50 years old
- have hypertension (high blood pressure)
- have a family history of AMD
Having heart disease is another risk factor for AMD, as is having high cholesterol levels. Caucasians (white people) also have an elevated risk of getting AMD.
Early Detection is Key
Regular eye screenings are critical in detecting AMD. If found in the early stages, there are treatments available to help slow the progression of Age Related Macular Degeneration. The AAO also states that dark leafy greens, yellow fruits and vegetables, fish, and a balanced, nutrient-rich diet have been shown beneficial for people with AMD.
People with lots of drusen or serious vision loss might benefit from taking a certain combination of nutritional supplements. A large study (AREDS and the later AREDS 2 study) found people with certain drusen may slow their dry AMD by taking these vitamins and minerals daily:
- Vitamin C (500 mg)
- Vitamin E (400 IU)
- Lutein (10 mg)
- Zeaxanthin (2 mg)
- Zinc (80 mg)
- Copper (2 mg)
With over 18 years of medical experience, Dr. Russ Van Norman is an expert practitioner in treating AMD.
Give us a call to schedule your consultation today so you can get on your way to the best year ever!
Also read: 7 Non Invasive Eye Procedures
