Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a common condition in society causing many visual disturbances, representing a large percentage of all eye problems. It is characterised by the degeneration of the macula area attributed by the loss of photoreceptors central to the retina of the eye. Most commonly, macular degeneration occurs in elderly people, and may represent a form of atherosclerosis in the eyes. The central field of vision is primarily disrupted and this can spread, causing deficits in peripheral vision as well. Macular degeneration is associated with blurred and distorted vision, causing straight lines to appear curvy. Age is the biggest risk factor for macular degeneration, however other risk factors include being female, white, a smoker, and/or having a family history of the condition can also increase your susceptibility to the condition.

Symptoms

• Visual disturbances
• Loss of vision in one eye, compensated by the other
• Vision loss of central field
• When both eyes affected, blindness can occur

Note: Macular degeneration usually develops gradually and painlessly

Causes

It is thought that macular degeneration occurs due to atherosclerosis of the blood vessels that supply the retina of the eye. Therefore, the causes and risk factors of macular degeneration is the same as for atherosclerosis. These include: age, cigarette smoking, family history, poor diet, hypertension, high cholesterol, and obesity. There has also been a gene recognized for increasing the risk of macular degeneration, called the compliment factor H (CFH) gene.

Treatment

Macular translocation surgery is a treatment that can be used if the abnormal blood vessels are located directly under the fovea. Steroids, such as Kenalog, have also been trialed for macular degeneration. However, there is no cure for macular degeneration.

Natural Therapies

It is important to address the causes and risk factors of cardiovascular disease in order to reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are essential. Antioxidants have been shown to help slow the progression of macular degeneration. These include vitamin A, C, E and the fruit bilberry, which is a potent antioxidant for the eyes. Omega-3 fatty acids, present in fish oils, can also help slow the progression of macular degeneration.

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