How to Reduce Your Risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) Awareness Month, a time to focus on protecting your vision from one of the leading causes of blindness in older adults. ARMD affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision, making activities like reading and driving more difficult. While there is no cure for ARMD, early detection and lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk and preserve your vision for years to come.

What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

ARMD is a progressive eye disease that damages the macula, leading to blurry or distorted central vision. It occurs in two forms:

•          Dry ARMD: The most common type, characterized by the gradual thinning of the macula and the presence of drusen (yellow deposits). Vision loss is slow but can become severe over time.

•          Wet ARMD: Less common but more aggressive, wet ARMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina, leaking blood or fluid and leading to rapid vision loss.

Are You at Risk for ARMD?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing ARMD, including:

•          Age: The likelihood of developing ARMD increases significantly after the age of 50.

•          Family History: A genetic predisposition can make some individuals more susceptible.

•          Smoking: Tobacco use is a major risk factor, as it damages the blood vessels in the retina.

•          High Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Disease: Poor circulation can affect the health of the retina.

•          Obesity and Poor Diet: Lack of essential nutrients can contribute to macular degeneration.

•          Prolonged UV Exposure: Unprotected exposure to sunlight may accelerate retinal damage.

Why Annual Eye Exams Are Essential

One of the best ways to protect your vision is through routine eye exams. Many people do not notice symptoms of ARMD in its early stages, but an eye doctor can detect early warning signs through specialized tests, such as:

•          Dilated Eye Exams: Allows for a close examination of the macula and retina.

•          Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides detailed imaging of the retina to detect abnormalities.

•          Amsler Grid Test: Helps monitor for distortions in vision that may indicate ARMD progression.

Early diagnosis allows for better management strategies, which can slow progression and help maintain quality of life.

How to Reduce Your Risk of ARMD

Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent ARMD, you can take proactive steps to reduce your risk:

•          Adopt a Healthy Diet: Eat plenty of leafy greens, colorful vegetables, and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, found in spinach and kale, can support macular health.

•          Quit Smoking: If you smoke, quitting is one of the most effective ways to protect your vision.

•          Maintain a Healthy Weight and Exercise Regularly: Staying active improves circulation and overall eye health.

•          Manage Chronic Conditions: Keep blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes under control to prevent damage to the retinal blood vessels.

•          Wear Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.

•          Take Eye Health Supplements: Some patients with moderate ARMD may benefit from AREDS2 (Age-Related Eye Disease Study) supplements, which contain key vitamins and minerals to slow progression.

Schedule Your Eye Exam at Eldorado Vision & Optical Today

Protecting your vision should be a lifelong priority, especially as you age. ARMD Awareness Month serves as a reminder to take proactive steps in safeguarding your eye health. By making healthy lifestyle choices, managing risk factors, and scheduling regular eye exams, you can reduce your chances of developing ARMD and preserve your sight.

If you are over 50 or have risk factors for ARMD, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Eldorado Vision & Optical. Contact our office in McKinney, Texas, by calling (972) 564-8400 to book an appointment today.