Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Low Vision are serious eye conditions that often affect adults over 50. Because of the severity and ubiquity of these issues, the American Academy of Ophthalmology has declared February AMD/Low Vision Awareness Month to encourage patients to get eye exams and check for any issues. The following guide will explain these conditions in more detail, so you can take steps to prevent them.

What Is AMD?

AMD is a condition that can inhibit your vision. This is due to the deterioration of the macula, which is a small part of the retina that controls your ability to read, use the computer, or watch television. In the early stages of the disease, patients might notice yellow spots in their vision; however, if the issue progresses, the patient may develop irreversible blind spots in their central vision.

What Is Low Vision?

Low vision is an umbrella term that is used to describe severe visual impairment that can’t be significantly improved with glasses, contacts, medication, or eye surgery. A patient with this condition has a loss of vision worse than 20/70, loss of peripheral vision, blind spots, or legal blindness.

Low vision is often caused by eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. An ophthalmologist can check for these issues at an eye exam.

How Can They Be Prevented?

While there’s currently no cure for AMD or low vision, there are some ways to help reduce your chances of developing these conditions as you age. Scientists have found that a healthy diet reduces your chances of vision loss. One study showed that vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, zinc, and copper helped slow AMD’s progression. You can take supplements or eat fruits and vegetables to get these benefits naturally.

Carotenoids found in fruits and vegetables have also been shown to improve vision problems, so try diversifying your meal with produce like spinach, kale, red peppers, corn, broccoli, oranges, and tangerines. Your eye doctor can also give you advice on other preventative measures at your eye exam.

If you’re concerned about AMD or low vision, contact the expert ophthalmologists at Russellville Eye Clinic PA in Pope County, AR. They offer a wide range of services, from glasses to glaucoma screenings. Visit their website to learn more or call (479) 968­-7302 to schedule your comprehensive eye exam today.