Most cases of AMD are related to the process of aging. (For this reason, AMD is sometimes referred to as ARMD - age-related macular degeneration.) AMD may also develop as a side effect of certain drugs, including anti-malarial medication, and it appears to run in families. The condition is more common among Caucasians than other races and affects more women than men.
AMD is a degenerative condition of the macula - the small area in the centre of the retina that allows us to see in detail. This precise, straight-ahead vision is vital for activities such as driving, recognizing faces, reading. painting, and other hobbies or crafts.
AMD varies significantly in severity. For some people, it may cause only slight distortion of vision. In the worst cases, it completely destroys central vision, making driving, reading and other close work impossible. The peripheral vision remains unaffected.
Types of AMD
There are two kinds of AMD - wet and dry. Eighty-five percent of cases are dry AMD. Although there are many theories as to why dry macula degeneration develops in the aging eye, the most likely cause is hardening of the arteries that nourish the retina. This reduces blood flow and deprives the retinal tissue of the oxygen and nutrients needed to function properly.
The wet form of AMD results when tiny blood vessels develop in an attempt to improve the blood supply to the oxygen-deprived retinal tissues. Since the new vessels are very delicate, they break easily causing bleeding and damage to surrounding tissue.
Causes of AMD
While the precise mechanism by which AMD develops is not well understood, it is believed that genetics, age, nutrition, smoking, and exposure to sunlight may all play a role.
The Importance of Eye Exams
One of the first signs of AMD is seeing blurred areas in the centre of text when reading, or doing close work such as a crossword. The wavy appearance of straight lines such as door and window frames and dark or empty spaces blocking the central area of vision also indicate that you may have AMD.
Since AMD usually develops gradually, it is difficult for a person to detect during the early stages. The condition can, however, be identified during an eye examination, making regular eye examinations vitally important for people aged 55 or older.
Reducing Your Risk Factors
Although at present there is no certain way to prevent AMD, research has shown that people who eat lots of fruits and vegetables (particularly green, leafy vegetables like kale and spinach) have a lower incidence of the condition. Further research suggests that taking certain vitamins, minerals and plant nutrients may play a key role in slowing progression of the disease.
In 2001, the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), supported by the U.S. National Eye Institute, studied the effects of certain antioxidants and the mineral zinc on the progression of AMD. The trial concluded that people aged 55 and older with moderate symptoms of AMD can reduce their risk of developing advanced macular degeneration by 25 percent if they regularly take supplementary vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and zinc.
In 2003, the same research group published additional findings confirming the original results and suggesting that more than 300,000 people could avoid vision loss associated with macular degeneration over the next five years if they took daily supplements of anti- oxidant vitamins and zinc.
The plant pigments lutein and zeaxanthin have also been studied for their role in helping to prevent the development of AMD. These compounds are present in the macular region of the retina and are believed essential for normal vision. Lutein and zeaxanthin are present in spinach, collard greens, Brussels sprouts and kale, corn, red grapes, squash, oranges and carrots. Lutein is also found in egg yolks.
While it is always best to obtain vitamins, minerals and plant nutrients from the foods you eat, it is not always possible to obtain the nutrients helpful to your eyes, in sufficient quantity to help prevent AMD. You may therefore want to invest in a supplement that provides support for your eyes, such as London Drugs AREDS Eye Care Formula and Eye Care Formula without beta carotene. (The latter has been formulated for people who are smokers, or who may have smoked for significant periods. Since research suggests the presence of supplemental beta carotene may increase a smoker’s risk of developing lung cancer, it is preferable to obtain this nutrient from foods alone.)
Ultraviolet light from the sun is also a risk factor for macular AMD. Ultraviolet light entering the eye causes an increase in the production of damaging free radicals - volatile molecules that destroy the cells. It is therefore very important to wear sun glasses that provide full-spectrum ultraviolet protection when outside in the sunshine - whether it be summer or winter.
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