Macular degeneration is a pathology that affects central vision. The patient’s ability to read and write becomes limited, as well as having problems recognizing faces. Older people are at a higher risk of suffering from age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the main cause of blindness in developed countries.
The measures to follow to reduce the risk of suffering from this eye disorder:
1. Stop smoking
The risk of suffering from AMD and the speed at which the disease progresses increases with tobacco consumption. For this reason, a smoker is twice as likely to suffer from AMD as a non-smoker.
2. Follow a healthy diet
A healthy diet, low in cholesterol and saturated fats, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of AMD. People who consume foods high in cholesterol and saturated fats have a higher risk of suffering from the disease.
3. Check your family history
If there are close relatives who have suffered from the disease, there is a 50% chance of developing it. Therefore, before going for an ophthalmologic check-up, it is important to talk to the family to know the history and detect the disease early. In this way, there will be a better chance of preserving vision.
4. Exercise regularly
Regular exercise can benefit vision. A study conducted in Berkeley (California) shows that regular aerobic exercise has positive effects on the eyes. According to their data, playing sports reduces the probability of AMD by 19%.
5. Have regular ophthalmologic check-ups
AMD may have no noticeable symptoms in the early stages of the disease. However, an ophthalmologist can detect early signs of the disease through a thorough ophthalmologic checkup.
From the age of 40 onwards, it is recommended to undergo an annual ophthalmological examination, because although AMD has a high incidence, there is a lack of awareness in society. Early detection can not only help to reduce the progression of AMD, but can even contribute to improving vision.