If you are having difficulty seeing as well as you used to, you may think it is just because you are getting older or that it may be time for a stronger eyeglasses prescription, but it may be something more serious – it could be macular degeneration. Read on for more information on this serious disease and what you can do to prevent it.
What is macular degeneration?
The macula, located in the back of the eye, helps to make sure that our vision is sharp. Problems arise when the arteries in the eye begin to harden and the macula is deprived of the nutrients it needs. Tissue begins to die, and patients may notice difficulty seeing objects clearly, a gradual loss of color vision, blurry vision, or a dark spot in vision.
What causes macular degeneration?
Age and genetics are two factors that can cause macular degeneration. Of course, you can’t do much about these; however, there are some lifestyle changes you can make to help your eyes fight macular degeneration:
• Ask your doctor about supplements. It is important to get the right vitamins and minerals to keep your eyes their healthiest. Your doctor might advise you to get more vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, or betacarotene.
• Stay active. Research has shown that people who have an active lifestyle are less likely to develop eye issues such as macular degeneration, and it is better for your overall health if you stay active!
• Watch what you eat. Foods with antioxidants (such as dark leafy greens) and foods with omega-3 (fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines) can help your eyes to stay healthy.
• Stop smoking. You’ve heard it from your doctor for years, but stopping smoking really is a way to improve your health. Smoking results in poor circulation, which makes it difficult for nutrients to be delivered to the eye.
It is also important for the health of your eyes to make sure you visit your eye doctor at least once a year or whenever something just doesn’t seem right with your vision. Call the office in St. George, UT, or Mesquite, NV, at (435) 986-2020 for an appointment today!
