Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs when the retina’s central area, called the macula, gradually deteriorates and reduces a person’s central vision. If this happens, you may find reading, driving, watching TV, and using the computer difficult.
People over the age of 50 are most likely to experience AMD. Caucasian women have the highest risk of AMD, but anyone with a family history of eye disease could experience macular degeneration. There is also an increased risk of experiencing AMD if you have light skin, hair, and eyes. Having said this, you can make a few easy lifestyle choices and visit your eye doctor regularly to prevent macular degeneration from occurring.
- Quit Smoking
Since nicotine shrinks the blood vessels, exposure to cigarette smoke dramatically increases your risk of macular degeneration. Smoking increases your risk if you have a genetic risk of developing AMD. It may be challenging to quit smoking, but preserving your eye health is well worth it.
- Stay Active
If you lead a sedentary lifestyle, it’s time to get moving! Being overweight and inactive greatly increases your risk of experiencing macular degeneration. Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight significantly is vital to prevent vision loss. Fortunately, staying active is as simple as going on daily walks for 30 minutes.
- Control Your Blood Pressure
The human eye contains a vast amount of small blood vessels, so high blood pressure can harm your eye health. Monitor your blood pressure during regular visits with your doctor and follow their medical advice closely if you need to reduce your blood pressure. Your doctor may suggest medication, dietary changes, or a new exercise plan.
- Follow a Healthy Diet
Consuming a healthy diet with a high amount of antioxidants is one of the easiest ways to preserve your vision. You may find antioxidants in dark leafy greens, orange fruits, and vegetables. Green, white and black teas are also chock full of antioxidants, so consider drinking this instead of your morning coffee. Fish, such as salmon and tuna, are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, reducing macular degeneration.
- Use UV and Blue Light Protection
Excessive exposure to blue light from digital screens and UV rays from the sun also increases your risk of macular degeneration. Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses whenever you’re exposed to the sunlight and blue light-blocking glasses if you’re using a digital device.
Protect Your Vision with Malkani Retina Center
Leading a healthy lifestyle will preserve your vision and prevent the development of macular degeneration. However, early detection is vital for the effective treatment of macular degeneration. If you have any concerns about your eyesight, see an eye doctor as soon as possible.
If you need treatment for diabetic retinopathy or other diabetic-related eye diseases, you need high-quality vision care from retinal experts. Malkani Retina Center is ready to serve patients in Florida with locations in Fort Myers, Naples, and Port Charlotte.
For information on our services or to answer questions about your vision health, don’t wait — contact our team of professionals today.