Vision Care

Age-related macular degeneration is intrinsic to aging for some individuals, but not all. People with an ARMD-affected family member have an increased the risk for its development. A slightly higher incidence occurs in females, although males and females are considered to be equally at risk. Whites and Asians are more susceptible to developing ARMD than blacks, in whom the disorder is rare.

The cause of ARMD is thought to be arteriosclerosis in the blood vessels supplying the retina. Certain risks for the heart are considered similar risks to those that contribute to the development of macular degeneration. Smoking increases the risk of developing wet-type ARMD, and may increase the risk of developing dry-type as well. Dietary fat also increases the risk. In one study of older (age 45-84) Americans, signs of early ARMD were 80% more common in the group who ate the most saturated fat compared to those who ate the least. Low consumption of antioxidants, such as foods rich in vitamin A, is associated with a higher risk. It is generally believed that exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light may contribute to disease development, but this has not been proven conclusively.

A study reported in Ophthalmology in 2000 concluded that hypertension, thyroid hormones, and antacids are associated with certain types of ARMD. The issue of antacids is not widely recognized since no determination has yet been made regarding whether the antacids themselves lead to the disease, or whether it is the stomach problems that are a contributing factor. Obesity was also found to be a factor in this study.

The main symptom of macular degeneration is a central vision change. The patient may experience blurred central vision or a blank spot on the page when reading, visual distortion such as bending of straight lines, and images might appear smaller than is the actual object. Some patients notice a change in color perception, or abnormal light sensations. These symptoms can emerge suddenly and become progressively worse. Patients should be advised that a sudden onset of symptoms, particularly vision distortion, is an indication for immediate evaluation.

Related posts:

1. Macular Degeneration Macular degeneration is the progressive deterioration of a critical region...
2. Macular Degeneration Diagnosis Optometrists and ophthalmologists, with assistance from ophthalmic assistants, technicians and...
3. Macular Degeneration Treatment While vision loss cannot be reversed, early detection is important...
4. Macular Degeneration Prevention Avoiding the risk factors for macular degeneration may help prevent...
5. Lowering Risk of Macular Degeneration Older adults who eat diets rich in citrus fruits, leafy...
6. Graves’ eye Disease Uncommon after Radioiodine Graves’ ophthalmopathy is uncommon in the first year after ablative...
7. Nutritional Supplementation to Prevent Cataract Formation Age-related cataract (ARC) is the leading cause of blindness in...
8. Glaucoma Causes and Symptoms The cause of vision loss in all forms of glaucoma...
9. Early Detection of Glaucoma Early detection of glaucoma. InSite Vision Inc., Alameda, CA, has...