It is a degenerative diasease of retina(Macular region). Usually happens to older people(age more than 50 yrs).
Symptoms:
1) Problem in Face Recognition
2) Reading & driving problem
3) Blank areas in the central part of the field of vision
Types: There are 2types of Macular Degeneration-
1) Dry ARMD: Very common form, approx 80% of the ARMD happens in dry form.
2) Wet ARMD: This is less common, approx 20% of the ARMD happens in wet form. It has more severe effect than dry form.
Risk Factors in ARMD:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Family history of ARMD
- High saturated fat diet
- Hypertension
- Obesity
- Smoking
Treatment: There is no effective treatment for dry ARMD except, the provision for Low Vision Aids. Though dietary supplements containing antioxidant vitamins, lutein and zeaxanthin may reduce the risk of dry ARMD progressing to the more severe stage of the wet ARMD. LASER treatment for wet ARMD to prevent further progress of the disease.
Prevention:
- Healthy diet
- Regular exercise
- Use Blue Light Protection Ophthalmic Lens
- Wear Sunglass
- Yearly eye check up by an Ophthalmologist or Retina Specialist after 50yrs of age
