3 Things You Can Do Today to Preserve Your Vision Against Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in individuals 50 and older. Currently, there is no cure for AMD, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the condition or preserve as much of your vision as possible if diagnosed. Steps include reducing eye strain, taking certain dietary supplements, and seeing your eye doctor for regular appointments.
How to Reduce Eye Strain
Eye strain is common, especially when so many of us rely on computers and smartphones to work and communicate. AMD can contribute to headaches and eye strain while reading. You can prevent or reduce eye strain by:
- Adjusting the lighting: If you’re watching television, keeping the room softly lit can help reduce eye strain. If you’re reading, try positioning your light source behind you or a shaded light in front of you to prevent light from shining directly into your eyes.
- Taking breaks: If you’re reading, working on the computer, or using your phone, follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Limiting screen time: Too much screen time can negatively affect your eyes. Try setting timers to ensure you take regular breaks to stand up, stretch, or readjust your posture.
- Wearing protective eyewear: Wear blue light glasses when working on your phone or computer. If you need glasses or contacts, consider investing in ones designed specifically for computer work.
- Using artificial tears: Artificial tears can help prevent and relieve dryness due to eye strain. Even if your eyes feel fine, you can use artificial tears to prevent a recurrence of symptoms.
The Benefits of Dietary Supplements
Whether or not you've been diagnosed with AMD, dietary supplements may be useful, especially if your intake of nutrients is inadequate. AREDS2 supplements, which refer to a range of supplements with formulas based on the Age-Related Eye, have been shown to benefit individuals with intermediate-stage AMD in one or both eyes to help lower the risk of progressing to late AMD and late-stage AMD (dry or wet) in one eye to help lower the risk of developing it in the other eye.
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
AMD may not have noticeable symptoms in its earliest stages, but the sooner it’s diagnosed and treated, the better your vision outcomes will be. Therefore, it’s important to schedule regular eye exams to identify any early warning signs of the condition, especially if you’re over 50. If you’ve already been diagnosed with AMD, it’s critical to keep up with your regular eye appointments so your doctor can monitor its progression and advise on your best treatment options.
Learn More About AMD and Preserving Your Vision
In 2019, an estimated 12.6% of Americans aged 40 and older were living with AMD. To preserve your vision against this disease, it’s important to reduce eye strain, take the appropriate supplements, and consult with your eye doctor regularly.
At Southeastern Retina Associates, we use advanced retinal treatments to help patients with AMD preserve their vision. If you want to learn more about protecting your vision against AMD or are experiencing any concerning symptoms, please see your regular eye doctor as soon as possible, and they may refer you to one of our offices. We see patients in Chattanooga, Knoxville, the Tri-Cities, and more.
MD: If you’re at risk for developing age-related macular degeneration or have already been diagnosed with it, learn how you can preserve your vision here.