Causes and effects of macular degeneration

The macular degeneration of the eye it is a degenerative disease that damages the center of the retina (macula); occurs in people older than 60 years , being the second cause of blindness in the elderly, after diabetes.

In an interview for GetQoralHealth , the doctor José Luis Merino He explains that it is the macular degeneration of the eye and associated diseases:

The symptom most common, is to have a little sight blurred , affecting those activities in which we must see directly forward such as reading, sewing and driving.

Another important sign to detect the presence of the disease is when the straight lines appear wavy; In case of having any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important that you visit your ophthalmologist immediately for you to perform a complete exam.

Macular degeneration usually affects Both eyes, but you can lose your sight in one eye while the other eye seems unaffected. There are two types of macular degeneration related to age: dry macular degeneration Y wet macular degeneration.

In addition to the risk of suffering it increases over the years, there are other factors who can intervene:

  1. Smoke
  2. Obesity. Research suggests that there is a connection between obesity and the progress of the initial and intermediate stage of macular degeneration to the advanced stage
  3. Race. The whites are much more likely than African-Americans to lose vision because of macular degeneration
  4. Family history People with family members who have had macular degeneration have more risk to develop it
  5. The women they seem to be more at risk than men

Your lifestyle can be the difference

The Nation Eye Institute (NEI), recommends some measurements that we can continue to reduce the risk of developing the disease:

  1. Eat one healthy diet with many green leafy vegetables and fish
  2. Do not smoke
  3. Keep your blood pressure normal
  4. Control your weight
  5. Make exercise

Next the doctorJosé Luis Merino , also indicates, other possible causes of this condition:

However, what is the effective and accurate method to diagnose macular degeneration. Our specialist explains it to us. Take note and improve your quality of life!

Remember that we must be aware of our eyes; As soon as the sight begins to cloud regularly or it is difficult for us to distinguish faces or focus our vision when reading, it is essential that we go to thedoctor for a diagnosis.


Video Medicine: Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Current Treatments and Future Therapies (April 2024).