Macular degeneration, also known as retinal degeneration or simply DM, is a disease that results in a decrease in central vision capacity, with darkening and loss of acuity, preserving peripheral vision.
This disease is related to aging and mainly affects people over the age of 50. Therefore, it is often also called AMD, age-related macular degeneration. However, it can also occur in young people and people with other risk factors such as smoking, lack of vitamins in the diet, high blood pressure or severe sun exposure, for example.
- Despite the absence of a cure.
- Treatment can improve vision and prevent disease aggravation.
- And involves certain ophthalmologist-guided options.
- Such as laser photocoagulation.
- Medications such as corticosteroids.
- And intraocular injections that decrease inflammation.
- In addition to following an antioxidant-rich diet.
- Such as vitamins C and E.
- And omega-3.
- Which are found in food or supplements.
Retinal degeneration occurs when tissue in the center of the retina, called macula, deteriorates. Therefore, the symptoms it causes include:
Although it can severely affect vision, macular degeneration does not usually lead to total blindness, as it only affects the central region, preserving peripheral vision.
Diagnosis of this disease is made through evaluations and tests carried out by the ophthalmologist, who will observe the macula and detect the form and degree of degeneration of each person, in order to plan the best treatment.
Depending on the stage and severity of macular degeneration, it can occur in different ways:
This is the initial stage of the disease and may not cause symptoms. At this point, the ophthalmologist may observe the existence of druze, which are a kind of waste that accumulates under retinal tissue.
Although the accumulation of drus does not necessarily result in vision loss, they can interfere with the health of the macula and move to a more advanced stage if not discovered and treated quickly.
It is the main form of disease presentation and occurs when retinal cells die, resulting in gradual vision loss. Left untreated, this degeneration may worsen and develop a more aggressive form in the future.
This is the most serious stage of the disease, during which fluids and blood can escape blood vessels under the retina, causing scarring and vision loss.
Macular degeneration is incurable, however, monitoring and control by the ophthalmologist, with a scheduled appointment, should be initiated as soon as possible, so as not to aggravate the disease.
In some cases, a treatment may be indicated that includes the use of thermal laser, corticosteroids, retinal photocoagulation, in addition to the intraocular application of drugs, such as Ranibizumab or Aflibercept, for example, which reduce the proliferation and inflammation of blood vessels.
Natural treatment does not replace treatment with medications directed by an ophthalmologist, but it is important to help prevent and prevent worsening of macular degeneration.
A diet rich in omega-3, present in fish and crustaceans, in addition to antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, zinc and copper, present in fruits and vegetables, is recommended as they are important elements for health. retinal.
If the food is not enough to meet the daily needs, it is possible to consume it through supplements sold in health stores and handling pharmacies, at the doses recommended by the ophthalmologist.
In addition, to help prevent and treat the disease, it is advisable to follow other healthy habits such as non-smoking, avoid alcoholic beverages and protect yourself from intense sunlight and ultraviolet rays with appropriate sunglasses.