Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease that is caused by the deterioration of the macula, which is found at the center of the retina. The macula helps the eyes to focus on small details, so that you can do tasks such as reading fine print or threading a needle. Since the condition is common in the over 60 population, it’s important that you understand how to decrease your risk of developing AMD.
Symptoms of AMD
AMD can lead to vision loss. Symptoms include blurriness of the central vision, as well as visual distortion.
Decrease your risk of developing AMD
Although AMD is associated with age, lifestyle choices can also lead to the development of the disease. Research shows that people who smoke are twice as likely to develop AMD. The condition is also more common among Caucasians, as well as individuals with a family history of the disease.
Furthermore, experts believe that there is a link between some blood pressure drugs and AMD. There have been cases in which people that take particular medication to lower blood pressure, (such as Loniten), have developed early stage AMD.
In order to decrease your risk of developing AMD, you should avoid these risk factors where possible. In addition, you should adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, and make sure to eat foods with nutrients that nourish the eyes. This includes fish and green leafy vegetables. Smoking should be avoided. You should also try to maintain a normal blood pressure level.
If you live in the Washington DC area and would like to learn more about how to decrease your risk of developing AMD, contact New View Eye Center, Reston, VA. Call 703-834-9777 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jacqueline Griffiths.