Many patients are concerned when an older relative develops macular degeneration, and worried that they may also develop it.

WHAT IS MACULAR DEGENERATION?

Macular degeneration (also known as ARMD - age-related macular degeneration) is a condition that affects the macula of the eye as one ages. The macula is, by far, the most sensitive part of the retina, and where the clearest central vision takes place.

Imagine looking through a lens with a big smear of vasoline in the center....

Many people as they age develop a harmless amount of drusen in the eye. But an excessive accumulation can cause blurred or distorted vision in the central eye area. That is diagnosed as "dry" macular degeneration.

Some people also develop a growth of blood vessels under the macula, which can leak or hemorrhage, causing more severe visual distortion. This is referred to as "wet" macular degeneration.

Unfortunately, reduction and distortion of vision from macular degeneration has not been considered treatable or preventable until recent years.

WHAT ABOUT PREVENTION?

There is much controversy and confusion about whether the effects of macular degeneration can be prevented or lessened.

Recent research suggests that excessive exposure to the sun may contribute to macular degeneration, from the ultraviolet light waves and the resulting oxidative products that build-up in the eye.

What you can do:

1. Wear a good quality pair of sunglasses that totally blocks and filters rays (note: please wear a reputable brand, and avoid inexpensive or "knockoffs" -- they can cause more harm than good). If you have any doubts about the quality of your sunglasses you may bring them by our office to inspect them. We now have an ultraviolet meter that can measure how effective your lenses are in blocking these harmful rays.

2. Consider foods, vitamins and supplements high in anti-oxidants. It is hypothesized that natural anti-oxidants in the diet may have a protective effect against damaging wavelengths.

A study of patients with mild macular degeneration who took anti-oxidants in the form of a pill, delayed the onset, and lessened the eventual severity of the disease. (ARED's study)

Two things to look for: Lutein and Zeaxanthin -- abundant in green leafy vegetables like kale, collard greens and spinach. Many supplements also include these anti-oxidative compounds.

Vitamins B6 and B12 (folic acid) and Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids may help protect against macular degeneration.

To read more about natural supplements for Macular Degeration, refer to my article "At Risk for Macular Degeneration? 6 Key Diet and Exercise Tips

Keep in mind, the data is still inconclusive about the cause and effect of sunlight and diet on macular degeneration. But there's no doubt that limiting sun exposure and eating foods high in anti-oxidants are smart lifestyle choices in general -- and may well help limit or delay macular degeneration.

CAN MACULAR DEGENERATION BE TREATED?

There is no treatment available for dry macular degeneration. However there is evidence that taking the above anti-oxidants may delay or prevent its progression. Chemicals have been discovered that can reduce new blood vessel growth, and have shown success in improving reduced vision in wet macular degeneration. Keep in mind that injections of these chemicals will not bring vision back to normal levels, but may lessen the severity of the loss of vision.