Macular degeneration is a condition in which the patient’s eyesight gets compromised. It impacts the retina’s sensitive and central part known as the macula. The disease is known to affect approximately 8 million people in the country. It is also one of the biggest causes of vision loss in people aged 50 years or above. Macular degeneration is often considered an age-related disease but may sometimes occur in younger patients.
Macular degeneration causes
Research has failed to identify why some people develop macular degeneration while others do not. However, age has appeared to be a significant contributing factor. It has also been indicated that genetic predisposition might contribute as a risk factor. Some other factors that can increase the risk for an individual include:
Increased exposure to UV rays or light
Improper nutrition
Decreased activity
Age – 65 years or above
Family history of macular degeneration
Macular degeneration symptoms
Macular degeneration is categorized into dry and wet macular degeneration. The symptoms observed in both these conditions are the same, except patients with the latter have increased severity of symptoms and a rapidly progressing condition. About 75% of patients suffer from dry macular degeneration. Signs to look out for include:
Reading with the assistance of bright lights
Printed words appear blurry
Straight lines appearing to be bent, or distorted vision
Hazy vision
Having difficulty recognizing faces
Weak central vision
Treatment
While there is no cure, the available treatment options help slow down the progression of the condition. Patients are prescribed based on the type of macular degeneration they are dealing with and the stage of the condition. Dry macular degeneration patients are often referred to work with a vision rehabilitation specialist. On the other hand, patients with wet macular degeneration may be prescribed injectable, oral, or topical treatments to be started immediately. Photocoagulation or photodynamic therapy are also options for such patients.
Assistance with food
Food plays a vital role in the development of health and health conditions:
Foods to include in your meals
Oranges
Certain studies have proven that Vitamin C plays an important role in the slow progression of macular degeneration. Regular inclusion of this vitamin can slow down the condition by 25% and is found in abundance in citrus fruits like oranges.
Kale
Antioxidants are important to maintain a healthy vision. Kale contains a high amount of carotenoids – a strong antioxidant. It also protects the macula as it contains zeaxanthin and lutein. It comes in handy to help slow down the progression of conditions like macular degeneration.
Foods to avoid
Processed food
Processed foods often contain high levels of mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids. These include products like processed cheese, bread, pasta, and even savory snack packets. Studies have indicated trans fats contribute to the development and progression of macular degeneration.
Tropical oils
Partially hydrogenated fats are commonly found in oils like palm oil and coconut oil. Since trans fats are bad for your health, using these oils for cooking can lead to the fast progression of diseases.
Natural remedies
Natural remedies can go a long way in helping patients better manage their symptoms. These remedies are more effective in dry macular degeneration. Some effective natural remedies include:
Regular physical activity
Making exercise a daily habit has shown to be beneficial for every individual. Macular degeneration was found to more commonly occur in patients with high cholesterol and high blood pressure. The regular physical activity ensures that blood component levels and other factors remain in check.
Antioxidant-rich
As seen earlier, antioxidants are crucial in slowing the progression of conditions like macular degeneration. Consuming foods with high levels of antioxidants can help better manage the condition.
