4 Tips For Avoiding Macular Degeneration  

If you are fortunate enough to have vision, you should know that there are things you can do to protect it. Good vision—even if you happen to be near-sighted or far-sighted—is something to treasure. The best thing you can do is to see your Jesup, GA eye doctor at least once every six months for an eye exam. The other things you can do involve educating yourself about risks to your vision, including macular degeneration.

What is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is the term for vision loss that occurs due to a degeneration of health in the macula. The macula is at the back of the eye, and is considered part of the retina. Although it is very small—just about 5 mm wide—it is the part of the eye that enables central vision, as well as the majority of color vision. The most common form of macular degeneration is age-related macular degeneration, or AMD. Note that AMD is the most common vision loss problem in persons over the age of 50. Just because a person is in that age range doesn’t mean they have to get AMD. There are ways to avoid age-related macular degeneration.

Tips For Avoiding Macular Degeneration

Avoiding age-related macular degeneration includes understanding the risk factors.

Quit Smoking

If you are a smoker, do everything you can to quit. This includes vaping and chewing tobacco. Smoking is a well-known risk factor for AMD.

Improve Diet

Studies have shown that a diet rich in nutrients and whole foods supports healthy eyes and vision. Avoid excess sugar and processed foods, which would increase your chance of developing AMD.

Attain a Healthy Weight

If you are overweight, know that your vision is at risk from AMD. Obese people—and even those who are simply overweight—are at a much higher risk of developing AMD. Weight loss can reduce your risk and may even save your vision. Work with your primary care physician to come up with a safe weight loss plan.

Treat Diabetes

If you have pre-diabetes or diabetes, get treatment. Untreated diabetes has several side effects, like hypertension, that can lead to the development of AMD.

If you have macular degeneration in Jesup, GA and need help, please contact us. We have the tools and expertise to help you to maximize your vision, slow the progression of AMD. We can also screen for AMD if you feel you are at risk.