Is It Possible to Prevent Macular Degeneration?

The American Macular Degeneration Foundation states that it is possible to prevent macular degeneration or MD. Studies show that this eye condition is the main cause of vision loss in individuals at least 60 years old. It is important to understand how to reduce risk and even prevent MD. Here are the details. 

Take Supplements

Studies show that taking supplements with specific micronutrients can lower your risk of MD progression by 25 percent. Exact amounts of zeaxanthin, lutein, and zinc oxide, as well as vitamin C, vitamin E, and cupric oxide, can lower your risk of MD. You can ask your eye doctor about MD supplements based on the formulation in the study. The combination of vitamins can decrease the number of drusen in your eye. This lowers your risk of MD development. 

Quit Smoking

This habit increases your risk for MD and other serious diseases. Stop smoking now, especially if you already have signs of this eye condition. It may be difficult to do at first. But with motivation and hard work, you can do it. You do that and save your eyesight and general health. 

Have a Nutritious Diet

You can also get the mentioned nutrients from different edible sources. Include foods rich in phytochemicals. Yellow corn, citrus, broccoli, grapes, and squash are some of the foods that you must get. They have high levels of zeaxanthin and lutein that can protect your eyes from the onset of MD.

Protect Your Eyes 

Research reveals that hours of unprotected sun exposure may increase your risk for MD. Using sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat can protect your eyes from the damaging effects of UV rays. Make sure you get 100 percent UV-protective sunglasses. You can also use a UV-protective umbrella. 

Keep Blood Pressure Within Normal Range

You are at risk for developing MD if you have high blood pressure. This chronic condition may be a complication of another chronic disease like diabetes. High blood pressure leads to the narrowing of blood vessels. This prevents proper blood oxygenation and circulation. Your eyes then end up with insufficient nutrients to function well. Taking the right maintenance medications, watching what you eat, and relaxing are a few of the ways to keep your blood pressure under control. 

Commit to Regular Eye Checks

Seeing your eye doctor for regular eye checkups as you age can help prevent or slow down the progress of MD. Your eye doctor can perform tests that can catch this eye condition early even if there are no obvious symptoms. You can then receive early treatments for MD. This can stabilize your vision. 

Seek Proper Support 

You should talk to your family about MD and who among you has been diagnosed with this ailment. Discussing this with your loved ones can help give you the support that you need. It is important to have someone understand why you are having the treatments. This can provide you with a ready shoulder or even a constant companion during checkups. 

Preventing MD is possible with the right level of motivation and hard work. For more about finding macular degeneration, visit Dr. Greg Wacasey at our office in Longview, Texas. Call (903) 403-2020 to book an appointment today.