Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a serious disease that is one of the main causes of vision impairment after the age of fifty. It is a disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for central vision. It is no coincidence that this disease is considered one of the most common in older people.
Scientists suggest that by 2040 the number of patients will increase by almost 100 million. But modern doctors have everything they need to diagnose and successfully treat the disease in the initial stages of development.
If left untreated, it can lead to the complete loss of central vision, which we use to drive, read, cook, and recognize people's faces. From the three-dimensional, colorful, clear picture of the surrounding reality, only general, blurred outlines remain.
Why is this happening?
Extracellular deposits accumulate in the outer part of the retina, which leads to degeneration (destruction) of photoreceptors. The macula contains the largest number of cones - photoreceptor cells, thanks to which all objects and subjects have their corresponding colors.
According to the conclusions of ophthalmologists and scientists, there are five main factors that influence the development of AMD in later life:
- Age: As we age, our bodies undergo natural changes, including changes in the structure of our eyes. Decreased flexibility of the lens, decreased tear production, and other physiological changes make our eyes more vulnerable to diseases, including AMD.
- Smoking: Cigarette smoke contains harmful substances that can destroy macular cells and damage the blood vessels that supply the central area of the retina. Therefore, smoking is a serious risk factor for the development of AMD.
- Oxidative stress: Free radicals produced during oxidative stress can damage macular cells and contribute to tissue inflammation, narrowing of the blood vessels that feed the retina. This can lead to the development of AMD and other eye diseases.
- Unbalanced diet: Insufficient dietary antioxidants, such as zinc, vitamins C and E, the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids, may contribute to the development of AMD. Antioxidants help fight oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals that can damage macular cells.
- Family history: A family history of AMD can also affect your risk of developing it. If a family member has had the disease, your children or other family members may be more likely to develop it.
In general, prevention of AMD includes a balanced diet, avoiding bad habits, and regular ophthalmological examinations after reaching the age of fifty, especially in the presence of risk factors. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce the consequences of this disease and preserve the quality of life.
