How to Reduce Your Risk for Macular Degeneration

One of the most common eye conditions that affects people as they get older is macular degeneration, particularly age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In the United States, it’s a leading cause of vision loss.

The macula is the part of your eye that’s responsible for sharp, central vision. 

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent AMD entirely, there are steps you can take to lower your risk and protect your vision for the long run. At Stevens Eye Care in Biloxi, Mississippi, Clayton Stevens, MD, offers a comprehensive array of eye services, including specialized care for patients with macular degeneration.

In this month’s blog, Dr. Stevens outlines some important measures you can take to reduce your risk for macular degeneration.

Maintain a healthy diet

Did you know that your diet plays a major role in your eye health? It absolutely does, and eating the right foods can help protect your eyes from macular degeneration and other age-related conditions like glaucoma.

Here’s what to include in your diet:

Leafy greens

Spinach, kale, and collard greens are packed with lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that are vital for macular health.

Colorful fruits and vegetables

Carrots, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and berries contain vitamins A and C, which support eye health.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Found in fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel, omega-3s are known to help reduce the risk of AMD.

Nuts and seeds

Almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds are good sources of vitamin E, which is important for protecting your eyes from oxidative stress.

The Age-Related Eye Disease Study, a large clinical trial, found that people with early AMD who took specific supplements containing vitamin C, zinc, vitamin E, copper, and beta-carotene had a slower progression of the disease. 

These supplements are helpful, but get most of your nutrients directly from whole foods whenever possible.

Limit alcohol and don’t smoke

Smokers are four times more likely to contract AMD than nonsmokers because smoking damages blood vessels, reduces blood flow to the retina, and increases oxidative stress, all factors that can speed up the development of AMD. If you smoke, talk to Dr. Stevens and create a plan to quit.

Excess alcohol consumption is also linked to AMD. If you consume alcohol, keep it to a moderate level, which is one or two glasses per day, at most.

Protect your eyes from UV light

UV rays from the sun can damage your eyes over time, increasing the risk for AMD. The cumulative effects of sun exposure can weaken the retina and macula. So take steps to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays every day, not just on bright, sunny days. 

Here are a few ideas for how to do that:

Wear sunglasses with UV protection

Look for sunglasses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound styles are especially good at keeping harmful rays out.

Wear a wide-brimmed hat

A wide hat shields your eyes from direct sunlight.

Be mindful of reflection

Water, snow, and sand reflect UV rays, so wear eye protection when you’re on the lake, on the slopes, or at the beach.

Get regular eye exams

The best way to catch macular degeneration early and prevent further vision loss is through regular eye exams at Stevens Eye Care. Even if you don’t have symptoms, seeing Dr. Stevens regularly can help detect changes in your retina and macula before they become more serious. 

If you have risk factors, such as a family history of AMD, early detection is especially important.

Macular degeneration is progressive, so take steps to reduce your risk and slow it down. To do so, call us at Stevens Eye Care to schedule an appointment or book online today.