Tips to Avoid Macular Degeneration

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As a person ages, they become a higher risk to develop a condition called macular degeneration or, more specifically, age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). The macula is inside the eye, and it’s susceptible to degeneration from a variety of causes. Typically, signs of macular degeneration start in the 50s, but this condition doesn’t have to happen to you. Your optometrist in Riverdale, NJ wants you to know some tips that can help you avoid it.

Eat Better

A balanced, nutrient-rich diet plays a crucial role in preventing macular degeneration. Consuming leafy greens like spinach and kale provides lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that protect the macula from oxidative stress. Eat colorful fruits and vegetables, nuts and fish, all of which supply vitamins C and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients help reduce inflammation and promote overall retinal health.

Shield Your Eyes from UV Rays

Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays is essential whenever you are outdoors. Pairing sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat offers extra protection by reducing direct sunlight exposure to the eyes. This simple habit not only guards your eyes but also supports long-term vision health.

Embrace Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Smoking is strongly linked to an increased risk of ARMD. Regular physical activity improves blood circulation, ensuring that vital nutrients reach your eyes. Managing health conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol through diet and exercise can reduce your risk.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Routine comprehensive eye examinations in Riverdale, NJ are vital for early detection of macular changes. Your optometrist can monitor your retinal health, advise on protective strategies, and recommend timely interventions if needed. Early detection allows for more effective management of the condition, potentially slowing its progression and preserving your quality of life.

Reduce Alcohol Consumption

Drinking alcohol is legal and socially acceptable, but too much drinking increases your risk of ARMD. Alcohol lowers immunity against all disease, dehydrates the body and in general makes a person more likely to develop macular degeneration. The earlier you reduce alcohol consumption, the less your risk will be.

An eye exam can quickly tell you if you have signs of ARMD. Why not book your appointment today and be proactive with your vision health?

5 Key Preventive Measures to Take Now to Prevent Macular Degeneration

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Macular degeneration is one of the most worrisome eye diseases because it is a progressive condition with no precise cure. Even though experts are not positive what it is exactly what causes the condition, they do know that there are several risk factors involved. Knowing these risk factors has allowed preventive measures to be established. Here is a look at five things you can do to protect your eyes from macular degeneration.

1. Take in a healthy, well-balanced diet.

If you do not eat a diet that is rich in veggies, and antioxidants, you could be more at risk for macular degeneration. Diets high in cholesterol, sugar, and fat can raise blood sugar faster, which is one of the biggest contributing factors to macular degeneration.

2. Protect your eyes from the sun.

Your sunglasses should be kept near any time you are heading out in the sun, but this is especially true if you want to avoid macular degeneration. The UV rays from the sun can cause small damage points in the eyes that can be more prone to degeneration later on in life.

3. Stay away from smoking and smokers.

People who smoke are much more likely to be diagnosed with macular degeneration. If you are not a smoker, it is even a good idea to keep yourself away from secondhand smoke, which can carry just as many risks.

4. Exercise on a routine basis.

Staying active is one of the kindest things you can do for your body, but it is also important for the health of your eyes. People who live a sedentary lifestyle are more prone to macular degeneration than those who stay active.

5. Keep your blood pressure in check.

High blood pressure is linked to problems with the eyes and vision. It is also closely related to macular degeneration. Make sure you keep your blood pressure monitored with routine exams and take medications if you are diagnosed with high blood pressure.

Contact Us to Learn More About Preventing Macular Degeneration

Knowing you are at risk for macular degeneration is scary, but it does not have to be. Reach out to us at Riverdale Vision care to schedule an appointment with us so we can discuss a proper preventive care plan for your eyes.