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How Do You Slow Down Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a disease of the macula, which is the small, tiny portion in the center of the retina in our eye. It is a degenerative disease, which happens due to aging. Macula performs the function of visual acuity, that means the sharpness of the vision. In macular degeneration, this function of the macula is hampered due to the degenerative changes in it. As a result, one gets difficulty in performing day to day tasks like reading, driving, recognizing people’s faces etc. In this disease, the central vision of the person is lost. Peripheral vision is usually not hampered.

How Do You Slow Down Macular Degeneration?

How Do You Slow Down Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration has no cure as of present. However, the progress of the disease can be slowed down with the help of certain treatments and home/natural remedies. These home/natural remedies are as follows-

Quit Smoking – Smoking is the most prime reason for causing macular degeneration, according to a few studies. Hence, to stop smoking can be ultimately the best way to prevent macular degeneration.

Green Vegetables: One must eat lots of green vegetables to prevent and slow down macular degeneration. This must be associated with the quantity of anti-oxidants found in these vegetables.

Supplements: One must take nutritional supplements. These supplements will provide the body with the required nutrients, as it is difficult for aged people to gain all nutrients from the diet alone. Nutritional deficiencies will lead to eye problems as well.

Fish: Inclusion of fish in the diet may help in preventing or slowing down macular degeneration. This might be related to the presence of omega -3 fatty acids in the fish, which provide the body with immense health benefits. Study shows, those who eat fish are less likely to develop macular degeneration.

Exercise: Regular exercise and keeping a healthy weight are a great way to reduce risk of macular degeneration and also help in slowing down the advancement of the disease.

Fruits: Consume lots of fruits and recommended amounts of nuts regularly. This is probably linked to the presence of anti-oxidants in fruits and omega-3 fatty acids in nuts.

Avoid Certain Foods: Processed foods should be avoided. These are very high in saturated fatty acids and MSGs., which are certainly not good for health. Refined carbs and sugars are best avoided too. This is because such foods have a high glycemic index and can increase the blood sugar levels rapidly.

Control High Blood Pressure: It is best to control any other medical issues with proper and timely medications. Medical problems like a high blood pressure can cause severe damage to the eyes.

It is a good idea to protect one’s eyes by wearing UV blocking sunglasses and wearing hats while going out in the sun. UV rays can cause lot of damage to the eyes.

Visit The Doctor: It is advisable to visit your ophthalmologist fairly regularly to undergo an eye examination. Any disease when detected at the earliest provides a better chance of Recovery and the advancement of the disease can be arrested.`

An early diagnosis can help improve the prognosis of macular degeneration. When it is paired with an efficient treatment regime, it can prove to be extremely beneficial.

Along with the prescribed treatment and home/natural remedies, it is advisable to maintain a healthy lifestyle to lead a healthy life. The health of the eyes depends on the general health of the body as well. It is seen that those having many medical problems, tend to have more eye problems as well, and that too at an early age. To avoid all this, it is extremely essential to follow a healthy and a balanced lifestyle.

Conclusion

Macular degeneration is a disease of the macula in the retina of the eye. There is no cure for this disease at present. However, with an early diagnosis and following some simple lifestyle and dietary modifications, one can prevent or slow down its progress.

References:

  1. American Academy of Ophthalmology: “Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD).” Source: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/amd-macular-degeneration Detailed information about age-related macular degeneration, including risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment options, from the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
  2. Mayo Clinic: “Age-related macular degeneration (AMD).” Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/wet-macular-degeneration/symptoms-causes/syc-20351107 Comprehensive overview of age-related macular degeneration, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options from Mayo Clinic.
  3. National Eye Institute: “Facts About Age-Related Macular Degeneration.” Source: https://nei.nih.gov/health/maculardegen/armd_facts Key facts about age-related macular degeneration, its impact on vision, and prevention strategies from the National Eye Institute.

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Team PainAssist
Team PainAssist
Written, Edited or Reviewed By: Team PainAssist, Pain Assist Inc. This article does not provide medical advice. See disclaimer
Last Modified On:August 11, 2023

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