AMD (Age-related macular degeneration) is a condition that affects the macula. This part of the retina has the greatest density of photoreceptor cells. Age and genetic predisposition are risk factors. However, we can manage our genetic make-up to avoid harming our eyes. We can also do what is good for them.
Photoreceptor cells cluster together in the center of the retina. This is known as the macula, or “point of sharpest vision.” Those with damaged macula can no longer read. They cannot recognize faces, but they can usually still orient themselves in space.
Avoid smoking, and drink only occasionally
Smoking hurts blood vessels and can make the retina swell up. It raises the risk of AMD by a factor of two to four. This makes it one of the most important risk factors that you can control. Alcohol is bad for your cells and nerves, so you shouldn’t drink too much of it. A lot of cancers are also less likely to happen if you don’t drink.
Pay attention to a healthy diet.
Vegetables, fruit, whole-grain foods, nuts, and seeds with healthy vegetable oils are all part of the Mediterranean diet. Fish should be eaten once in a while. Only a small amount of meat is recommended. This diet has the vitamins, minerals, trace elements, and unsaturated fatty acids that the eyes need. In studies, some people took a mix of vitamins, zinc, and copper. They were able to slow down the progression of AMD. Before you take it, talk to your eye doctor about the benefits and any possible side effects.
Make sure you get enough exercise
An early form of AMD is less likely to happen if you work out. A recent overview study that looked at how frequently AMD occurs in active and inactive people demonstrated this. The World Health Organization (WHO) says that you should do moderate aerobic exercise for at least 150 minutes per week. Also, 20 minutes a day is seen as the minimum for AMD by experts. Motto: More is more.
Watch your weight, blood pressure, and other vital signs.
High blood sugar, high blood pressure, and high levels of fat in the blood can damage the blood vessels. They can also cut off blood flow to the retina. When a person is overweight, inflammatory chemicals from the adipose tissue enter the bloodstream. They also reach the retina, which is a very sensitive part of the eye. Losing weight is a good way to protect not only your eyes but also the rest of your body.
Protect yourself from too much sun
Some studies show that UV radiation can hurt the lens and maybe even the retina. But the results aren’t agreed upon. Sunglasses with large lenses and wide arms that have a UV filter (“UV400”) protect against light coming in.
Go to the ophthalmologist regularly
Ophthalmologists recommend that people over 60 have their eyes checked every three years. In the event of changes and, for example, diabetes, also at shorter intervals.
Do the Amsler test regularly
The Amsler test is a grid of straight lines. If they are distorted or blurred, this can indicate changes in the retina, such as fluid accumulation (edema).
Adhere to the therapy recommendations.
Fluid can build up in the retina. This is a sign of “wet” AMD. An ophthalmologist can use medicine to treat the affected area. He decides how often and how far apart these steps need to be taken.
Stay calm
Stress damages the blood vessels. This leads to a decrease in the blood supply to the eyes. It is not helpful to think that AMD could cause blindness for this reason. Most of the time, residual vision lasts for a long time. With special tools to help them see and read, many people with this condition can stay on their own for a long time.