Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the UK. It is a form of macular disease that affects the eye's retina. An estimated 500,000 people in the UK suffer from AMD, 40% of these are over the age of 75.
There are two forms of AMD – dry and wet. Dry AMD means visual cells simply stop functioning. Wet AMD is by far the most aggressive form of the disease. The condition is caused by the growth of new blood vessels under the centre of the retina. These can leak fluid, causing scar tissue to form and destroying central vision in a period of between two months and three years.
The condition causes sufferers to have problems reading, seeing small objects and distorted vision. Objects may take an unusual size or shape. Although peripheral vision is retained, central vision is blurred or distorted. Development of the condition can happen quickly or develop over several months. It generally involves both eyes, although they may not be affected at the same time or to the same degree. People with the condition may become very sensitive to light or actually see lights that are not there.
For many who have this medical condition they will find it difficult to read or have access to any printed material. Having information such as household bills, bank statements and letters provided in formats such as large print or audio is an invaluable part of any sufferer’s life. It is important that companies realise just how important offering information in alternative formats is to people with a visual impairment.
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As people continue to live longer, the incidence of eye disease such as macular degeneration is on the rise. These types of debilitating eye diseases rob people of vision, and can result in individuals losing their independence.
It is believed that the visual system requires up to 25% of the nutrients we take into our bodies in order to stay healthy. Impaired circulation and/or poor absorption of nutrients can significantly contribute to eye disease.
There is a great deal of peer review research now showing the vision can be preserved through a proper diet and specific nutritional supplementation.
Essential nutrients include lutein, zeaxanthin, omega-3 fatty acids, taurine, gingko biloba, lycopene, vitamin A, E, zinc, copper, selenium for example, that can help both prevent the onset of eye disease such as macular degeneration as well as help preserve vision for those with macular degeneration.
For more information and specific research studies by eye condition on nutrition and vision, go to www.naturaleyecare.com
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