Macular Degeneration
(Julie)

Macular degeneration affects people over the age
of 50. Regular eye check ups with an optometrist
will help monitor any deterioring eye problems.

There are 2 forms of macular degeneration.
Wet and Dry.

In dry macular degeneration yellow deposits called
drusen form under the retina between the retinal layer
and the Bruch's membrane, which supports the retina.

In the early stages there are several small yellow deposits
(Drusen) but no vision loss or symptoms.

In the middle stage some may need more light for reading as they
have more drusen. They may have blurred vision.

In the last stage there can be many large deposits which
become larger and darker ending in blindness.

In wet macular degeneration new blood cells grow and become
fragile and can leak fluid and blood causing scarring of the
macular resulting in legal blindness.

Dark green, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables
contain carotenoids which may
control age-related macular degeneration.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are two important carotenoids related
to vision health. Lutein is found in dark, leafy greens.

Antioxidants and zinc may prevent damage in the macula
age-related macular degeneration.

Smoking, family history of macular degeneration, gender, obesity,
race, prolonged sun exposure, blood pressure, a high fat diet and/or one that is
low in nutrients and antioxidants, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease
all contribute to this condition. Protecting the eyes from the sun
will help from damaging the eyes.

http://www.preventblindness.org/eye_problems/amdFAQ.html

A short question and answer to see if you might develop
macular degeneration.

GOF   Back

GuestBook

Set exclusively designed by GK Ann for The Garden of Friendship
All ideas, concepts, and content including text, content and graphics 
are owned by The Garden of Friendship and its members unless otherwise noted
and should not be taken or duplicated without express written consent
Copyright © 2000 and Beyond. 
This is not linkware