Macular degeneration is a condition that causes the center of your vision to blur while the side or peripheral vision remains unaffected. It is generally related to the aging process.
In the earliest stages, macular degeneration is entirely symptom free but can be detected during routine eye health examinations. The most common initial symptom is slightly blurred central vision when performing tasks that require seeing detail. Other symptoms of AMD can cause straight lines to look wavy or distorted, and dark spots may blank out portions of the central vision. Patients experience no pain with AMD.
Lifelong UV protection and good nutrition are believed to play a key role in preventing AMD.
· Living a healthy lifestyle by keeping your blood pressure down
· Reducing your intake of fatty foods
· No smoking is recommended.
·A diet high in antioxidants such as beta-carotene (a form of vitamin A), vitamins C and E, zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin, selenium and omega 3 fatty acids
Regular eye examinations by an optometrist are also important in the early detection of AMD. Early signs of AMD may be found during an eye examination even if no symptoms are noticed. Your optometrist can discuss ways to minimize the possibility of vision loss due to AMD.
Here at 20/20 we have you covered for all your eye care needs.
