The Risk Factors for AMD & How You Can Prevent Vision Loss

Age-related macular degeneration (or AMD) is a debilitative condition that has impacted over two million Americans, many of whom eventually experience severe vision impairment.  AMD impacts the macula, an area of your retina which is located in the back of the eye.  Individuals who suffer from AMD often experience blurry vision when focusing directly on something; over time, individuals may even experience a white or gray patch in the center of their field of vision.

Despite the proclivity of AMD in individuals over the age of 50, the causes of this condition aren’t yet known.  However, it’s believed that there is a number of risk factors that could increase the likelihood of developing AMD.  In addition to age, these symptoms can include the following:

• High blood pressure levels
• High cholesterol levels
• Obesity
• Gender (women are often more likely to experience AMD)
• Race (Caucasians are more likely to develop AMD)
• Smoking
• Family history

Another risk factor includes a poor diet.  Researchers have found that a diet low in essential nutrients and vitamins (including vitamins A, C, and E) can make it much more likely that an individual will develop AMD.

With this in mind, it’s important to take critical steps to ensure that your risk for developing AMD is relatively low.  To do this, consider taking the following steps:

• Ensure that you’re working with your physician to lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.  A healthy diet that’s low in sodium and regular cardio exercise (three hours each week) can help achieve normal blood and cholesterol levels.  Some individuals may need additional assistance from medication, which should be prescribed by a physician.

• Make a commitment to quit smoking.  If you need yet another reason to snuff out this habit, smoking isn’t just a risk factor for AMD; it can also lead to a host of eye problems, including severe vision loss and even blindness.  Consider using cessation therapy to quit smoking, or ask your physician for medications that can help minimize your nicotine addiction.

• Commit to losing weight.  Your physician can help you come up with a viable weight loss plan that’s supplemented by a healthy diet and exercise.  The more weight you lose, the more likely it is that you’ll reduce your chances of developing AMD.

In addition to these actions, it’s important to schedule regular exams with your ophthalmologist. At the Center for Ophthalmology and Laser Surgery – serving the greater Fort Lauderdale, FL and surrounding Florida areas – Dr. Loeffler and his staff members are dedicated to diagnosing AMD and correcting it with a range of treatment options.  Schedule an appointment with Dr. Loeffler today for AMD diagnosis and to learn about your treatment options. (954) 786-5353