As you age, you may notice subtle changes in your vision, which is a natural part of life. Some conditions, however, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), can significantly affect your vision. Our team at Downtown Vision Care wants you to understand this condition so that you can protect your long-term eye health.
While there is no definitive cure for age-related macular degeneration, you can take proactive steps to help reduce your risk and slow its progression. A combination of lifestyle choices and regular eye care can provide a strong foundation for your vision.
Understand Age-Related Macular Degeneration
What AMD Affects
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula, which is a small area in the centre of your retina at the back of the eye. The macula is responsible for your sharp, central vision. Damage to this area can interfere with your ability to read, drive, and recognize faces clearly.
The Two Main Types
Dry AMD is the more common form, and it can develop gradually. Wet AMD is less common but can cause more rapid and serious vision loss, occurring when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina.
Primary Risk Factors
Your risk for AMD increases with age, particularly after 60. A family history of the condition also elevates your risk. One of the major contributing factors is smoking, which significantly increases your chances of developing AMD.
Adopt Lifestyle Habits for Eye Health
Focus on a Nutrient-Rich Diet
You can support your eye health through your diet. Eat foods rich in antioxidants, such as dark, leafy greens, including spinach and kale. Consuming fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and tuna, can also be beneficial. Your eye doctor can discuss whether specific eye health supplements are appropriate for you.
Maintain Healthy Routines
Regular physical exercise helps support healthy blood circulation throughout your body, including your eyes. Maintaining a healthy body weight also contributes to overall wellness and eye health.
Manage Your Overall Health and Wellness
Control Your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can restrict blood flow to the delicate blood vessels in your eyes, damaging the retina. There is a demonstrated association between hypertension (a common condition for older Canadians) and the progression to advanced AMD.
Monitor Cholesterol Levels
Some research suggests that cholesterol and lipid metabolism may play a role in AMD. Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels supports the vascular health of your entire body, eyes included.
Take Proactive Steps to Protect Vision
Shield Your Eyes from UV Light
Protecting your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) light is simple yet effective for comfort and overall eye health. When outdoors, wear sunglasses with complete UV protection. You can look for eyewear with a UV 400 label, which indicates it blocks nearly 100 percent of harmful UV rays.
Know Your Family Health History
Genetics can play a role in your risk for AMD. Inform your eye doctor if you have close relatives with the condition and pay attention to early signs, such as straight lines appearing wavy or distorted.
Monitor Your Vision at Home
Your eye doctor may recommend using an Amsler grid to check your vision. This simple tool helps you detect changes in your central vision, such as dark spots or blurry areas. Any differences that you notice should be reported to our eye care team right away.
The Importance of Regular Eye Examinations
Why You Need Routine Checkups
Comprehensive eye examinations help with the early detection of AMD, often before you notice any symptoms. An early diagnosis helps with prompt management, so that you can preserve as much of your sight as possible.
Your Eye Exam
During your eye exam at Downtown Vision Care, our optometry team can perform a full evaluation of your retinal health. The examination includes specialized tests to get a clear view of the macula.
Find the Right Support and Eyewear
Our eye care team can recommend specific lens options to protect your eyes from UV light. You can also explore durable frames and lenses designed for daily professional use, whether you are at your desk for hours or staring at a computer all day.
Support Your Vision Today
Protecting your vision requires a proactive partnership between you and your eye doctor. Our team at Downtown Vision Care in Calgary can provide a thorough assessment and guidance based on your individual needs.
Request an appointment to discuss your eye health today.
