Lifestyle Changes Are Part of Macular Degeneration Treatment
Here at Monterey County Eye Associates, we take great pride in offering patients the latest in advanced vision treatments. Something this means advanced surgical procedures while other times it means proper management of an eye condition. The latter is a key component in treating age-related macular degeneration, also known as AMD and ARMD.
We'd like to take a moment to go over some of the basics of macular degeneration, and then focus on the most common lifestyle changes that help slow the rate of a patient's vision loss.
About Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in the United States. It's estimated that more than 10 million Americans develop the condition, which is more than cataracts and glaucoma combined.
Macular degeneration is characterized by the deterioration of the macula, the middle portion of the cornea. When the condition develops as a result of advanced age, a person develops blindspots in their central vision as well as blurriness or waviness of overall vision. There are two kinds of macular degeneration: dry and wet. Dry is the more common variety of the condition, occurring 85 to 90 percent of the time.
Why Lifestyle Changes Are Key for Management
Macular degeneration is an incurable condition. However, proper lifestyle adjustments can slow down the rate of vision loss and help patients maintain some general vision quality. This improvement in general wellness has additional benefits, allowing you to be in ideal health during your golden years.
Quit Smoking and the Use of Tobacco Products
Smoking doubles your risk of developing macular degeneration in addition to cataracts, lung disease, and heart disease. Consider this yet another good reason to kick the habit for good.
Limit Your Consumption of Alcohol
Drinking in moderation can be good for your health, but any excessive or regular consumption of alcohol can put you at risk for various health issues. To help manage macular degeneration, consider limiting your consumption of alcohol.
Improve Your Diet and Eating Habits
You are what you eat, the old saying goes. If you eat healthy, you're more likely to experience better vision and improved wellness. Consider eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, and avoiding processed foods, excessive salt, and extra sugar.
The following foods are recommended to help control macular degeneration:
- Leafy greens
- Spinach
- Carrots
- Brussels sprouts
- Oranges
- Green beans
- Peaches
- Tomatoes
- Papayas
- Melons
- Peas
Take Vitamin and Mineral Supplements
Your eye doctor may recommend taking supplements to help improve your daily intake of certain vitamins and minerals. Antioxidant vitamins and zinc in particular may be helpful in preventing vision loss associated with macular degeneration.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise gets the blood flowing, keeps your heart healthy, and helps relieve stress. Consider adding more moderate exercise to your daily routine to help prevent macular degeneration or to keep the vision loss at a minimum.
Protect Your Eyes from the Sun
The UV rays of the run can cause serious harm if you are not careful. Consider wearing sunglasses whenever you are outdoors. A hat with a brim can also be very helpful in protecting your eyes from sun damage.
Contact Monterey County Eye Associates
For more information about treating macular degeneration and improving your overall wellness, be sure to contact our advanced eye care and vision correction center today. The team at Monterey County Eye Associates looks forward to your visit and discussing these matters in greater detail.
