Alternative Medicine for Macular Degeneration

Overview

Macular degeneration is an appropriate eye disease when considering alternative medicine and treatment options. There have been significant scientific advancements recently leading to the development of new prevention and treatment forms. Many studies have shown a link to the disease with risk factors such as genetics, environment, diet and exercise. A qualified eye care professional will provide the proper education and treatment plans that one should consider. All medical treatments can potentially have side effects, and an adequately trained eye doctor will be able to determine the safest plan of action.

History

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease that affects a person's central vision. The disease is typically classified under the category of wet or dry macular degeneration. Wet macular degeneration can lead to more dramatic vision loss, and it is caused by leaking blood vessels underneath the central macula area of the retina. There are now surgical treatments such as laser and ocular injections that are available for wet macular degeneration. The dry form is the more common of the two forms, with the incidence of AMD increasing significantly after age 65. In the dry form of macular degeneration, the macular area of the retina undergoes changes in various retinal layers that can result in scarring and atrophy. This form often follows a more gradual loss of central vision, whereas the wet form can cause sudden episodes of blurred vision. Research including the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) sponsored by the National Eye Institute (NEI) demonstrated that nutritional supplements and antioxidants could assist in slowing the progression of dry AMD.

Prevention/Solution

Until recent years there have not been many options for treatment of AMD. Fortunately, new research has shown that certain nutrients and environmental factors may contribute to the outcome of the disease. The AREDS and the current AREDS2 Study are finding positive results with the possible decrease in the progression rate of AMD. The American Optometric Association (AOA) lists the supplement dosages utilized in the studies: lutein (10 mg per day), DHA/EPA (500 mg per day), vitamin C (500 mg per day), vitamin E (400 mg per day), copper (2 mg per day), and zinc (40 mg per day). The formulation is recommended currently only for patients that are at risk for advanced AMD. The high doses implemented in this study may cause harmful side effects in certain individuals. Therefore, one should always consult with an eye doctor to determine his ocular health and discuss appropriate treatment options if necessary.

Considerations

Other environmental risk factors for AMD include cigarette smoke and sunlight exposure. This could be the perfect opportunity to quit smoking and buy a new stylin' pair of UV-protecting shades. Wide-brimmed hats could also be in this season. If one's goal is to get into shape, then a macular degeneration diagnosis is a perfect excuse to do just that. Most eye doctors agree that a heart-healthy diet and exercise plan is also a macula-healthy plan. Genetics should also be considered when discussing risk factors with your eye doctor.

Vision Rehabilitation

New and exciting technology and equipment are available to assist in the optical correction of central vision loss. Lighthouse International is a prominent company that specializes in the distribution of low vision devices and offers a helpful guide to the low vision devices available (see Resources). Several companies have developed advanced optical systems in the forms of lighted magnifiers, specially designed telescopes, and portable video display screens that magnify the image to diminish the effect of the individual's blind spot. Many aides including large print books, plastic border overlays for writing checks, and talking digital watches are also available and quite helpful with everyday tasks for the visually impaired.

Benefits

Many valuable services are available for people with visual impairment from AMD. A good first step for affected individuals would be to contact their state bureau of disabilities for information about state-sponsored programs. The key to successful management of macular degeneration is proper education and regular eye examinations. Surveys show that the loss of sight is the most feared by people when considering the loss of one of the senses. This is the very reason why education and a positive outlook are so critical in learning about new and effective treatment options.