Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD)

Age-related macular degeneration is damage to the center of the retina, the macula. The retina is the nerve tissue of the eye and the macula is responsible for fine central vision.

It is an eye disease quite common in the population over 55 years of age and can lead to serious disability. Central vision gradually decreases over time and the center of the field of vision becomes dark as a black spot.

Statistics:

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) accounts for 8.7% of the total blindness globally and is the third common cause of visual impairment. It is the primary cause of impairment in industrial countries. The person with ARMD is likely to increase from three to six million by the year 2020.

In the past no therapies were available. As a result of the developments in the medical world over the years, since 2000 this disease has at first been treated by photodynamic therapy and later by intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF (vascular growth factor inhibitor). The therapies are only partially effective and it is better to prevent the disease by regular eye check-ups and the following preventive measures.

Prevention:

• Don’t smoke
• Eat plenty of dark, leafy green vegetables such as raw spinach
• Take a balanced multivitamin
• Eat fish or take a fish oil supplement
• Exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy weight
• Eat fruit and nuts daily
• Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control
• Wear sunglasses outdoors to block UV and blue light that may cause eye damage
• HAVE A REGULAR EYE CHECK-UP. The condition can be stopped from progressing if detected in the early stages.

Dr. Jagruti Desai ( M.S. Ophthalmology )

Oculus eye hospital
Tel. 9820094152, 9819983158