WHAT IS MACULAR DEGENERATION?

Macular Degeneration (AMD) is damage or breakdown of the macula of the eye. The macula is a small area at the back of the eye that allows us to see fine details clearly. When the macula doesn't function properly, vision becomes blurred or dimmed in the central part of our field of vision. The peripheral (side) vision remains unaffected. For example, a person can see a clock but not be able to tell what time it is. Close work, like threading a needle or reading, may become difficult or impossible.

TYPES OF MACULAR DEGENERATION

The two most common types of AMD are "dry" (atrophic)and "wet". Dry AMD is mainly caused by natural aging and thinning of the tissues of the macula. Vision loss is generally gradual.

Wet AMD results when abnormal blood vessels form at the back of the eye. These new blood vessels leak fluid or blood in and around the macula which causes blurred central vision. Vision loss may be rapid and severe.

WHY WOULD I GET MACULAR DEGENERATION?

Risk factors for development of AMD include sun (UV) exposure, smoking, poor diet, family history and, most commonly, the natural aging process. Women over the age of 50 are, statistically, at highest risk.

WHAT CAN I DO IF I AM AT RISK?

The doctors at Arnold EyeCare Center are pleased to be able to offer you the Quantifeye. Quantifeye is a new test that can measure your macular pigment-- which has been shown to be a predictor of who would be at highest risk for AMD. Drs. Wilson, Birsinger and Wright recommend this test yearly for those who are at risk.

WHAT ARE TREATMENTS FOR AMD?

There is no cure for AMD. However, studies have indicated ways to help slow the progression of the disease. Arnold EyeCare doctors prescribe the following:

1. SUNGLASSES -- Always wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection when you are outdoors. This is important for people of all ages and whether they have AMD or not.

2. NO SMOKING -- Studies confirm that smoking can dramatically increase your risk for developing AMD.

3. VITAMINS -- Nutritional supplements help provide the proper balance of vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health and vision. Lutein is especially important for eyes and can be obtained from eating spinach or from MAXIVISION Whole Body Formula vitamins-- our recommended dietary supplement.

For those who are at highest risk or who already have AMD, our doctors also prescribe EyePromise Restore dietary supplement. Its ingredients include Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Vitamins C & E, Zinc, Alpha Lipoic Acid and Omega 3's. This makes EyePromise Restore an excellent source for antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents.