You Can Protect Your Eyes from Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is an age-related disease that leads to loss of vision for more than two million Americans. The cause of macular degeneration is still under study, however there are some similarities common to those with this eye disease. Most suffers are over age 50, are smokers, are usually Caucasian and may have a family history of macular degeneration.

The macula is the part of the eye that helps you focus on things with fine detail. Macular degeneration makes it harder to see well enough to read, drive and recognize faces. It generally affects the center of your vision, leaving the side vision and seldom leads to complete blindness.

There are two types of macular degeneration, the dry form, the most common type. This form develops slowly with several years of nearly normal vision for reading and driving. Eventually the central field of vision may become dimmer with fuzziness and objects may appear warped or smaller than they are. Black spots may appear at the center field of vision making reading and driving difficult.

What is considered the wet form is less common, but it happens more quickly and is the most serious. It causes severe vision loss very quickly with straight lines looking curvy or waved. If this occurs you should see your doctor immediately. It can be diagnosed by a regular eye examination. It is common to have either type in just one eye, however overtime it can develop in both eyes.

There are things you can do to prevent age-related macular degeneration. The wearing of sunglasses is recommended and diet is important because certain foods contribute to a healthy retina by supplying vision friendly antioxidants.

Spinach, broccoli, collards, kale, okra, mango, kiwi and papaya offer rich amounts of lutein and carotenoids.

Yellow corn, orange bell peppers, oranges, mangos, apricots, peaches and honeydew melon supplies zeaxanthin.

Green peppers, broccoli, tomatoes, yams, oranges, grapefruit and cantaloupe offer vitamin C.

Eggs, wheat germ, whole grains, vegetable oils, nuts and nut oils offer vitamin E. Tuna, Salmon, flaxseed and flaxseed oil contribute the needed Omega-3 fatty acids.

If you are on a restricted diet or if you want to be sure you are getting the vitamins and antioxidants necessary for healthy eyesight there are vitamin supplements designed specifically for eye health. Most retail pharmacies and health food stores offer a variety of supplements to maintain healthy eyes.

Your eyes are a precious gift, and they need to be protected with the best care possible.