How to Detect Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is the most common cause of legal blindness in Americans over the age of 50. Since macular degeneration develops over the course of several years, it is possible to detect and treat it early on.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sunglasses
• Collard Greens
• Spinach
• Kales

1. Look at an object with a normally straight outline. Does the outline appear bent or wavy instead of straight?

2. Stare straight ahead. Is there a dark, blank or blurry spot in the center of your vision?

3. Fix your vision on any object, then try covering one eye. Does the object seem to change in size or color?

4. See your eye care specialist about being tested for macular degeneration if you answered yes to any of the above questions.

Tips & Warnings

• The macula is the central portion of the retina, the area at the back of the eye that transforms light energy into nerve impulses, making vision possible.
• Combat the development of macular degeneration by eating foods high in carotenoid antioxidants, such as leafy green vegetables - spinach, kale and collard greens are good choices. These can keep blood vessel walls strong and act as a retinal filter for blue light, which is harmful to the retina and can lead to macular degeneration.
• Wear protective eyewear when out in the sun to keep harmful ultraviolet rays away from the macula.
• Those high at risk for macular degeneration include people with green, blue or hazel eyes; people who are over 65 years of age; people with constant exposure to sunlight; smokers; and post-menopausal women.
• The macula can be damaged by factors such as aging, thinning tissues, harmful light rays and sun damage to blood vessels in the retina.

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[amberdusk]

on 4/26/2009 I've worried a lot about macular degeneration and have made a point of eating lots of greens and take lutein, bilberry, and other eye-friendly supplements. Thanks for this article...

on 11/22/2005 Avoid alcoholic beverages, in my case vodka and gin will worsen my condition.

on 11/22/2005 I am 48 and have Macular Degeneration. They found it back in 1994. I take Bright Eyes and was told to take Zink. This isn't an old person's disease. It can hit anyone. There is no cure.