Macular Degeneration - What it is, Causes, Symptoms, Treatments
Information on diagnosing, symptoms, causes and various treatment methods for macular degeneration.
All About Macular Degeneration
Learn how to help yourself naturally
Below is an excerpt from our free ebook "Macular Degeneration - What it is, Causes, Symptoms, Treatments". The ebook has much more information on the causes, symptoms and treatment of macular degeneration.
Download the full 'Macular Degeneration - What it is, Causes, Symptoms, Treatments' information as a pdf ebook - Right click and choose 'save as'
You can also find many more *free* natural health ebooks at Remedies4.com
What is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is a disorder that affects central vision - what you see directly in front of you as opposed to your peripheral or side vision.
The macula is the central portion of the retina, the paper-thin tissue at the back of the eye where light-sensitive cells send visual signals to the brain, and is responsible for detailed vision.
Macular degeneration occurs when the central part of the retina deteriorates. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD or ARMD) is the most common eye disease and is in fact the leading cause of visual impairment and blindness in the United States in people over the age of 50.
Damage to the macula results in the development of blind spots and blurred or distorted vision and can hamper your ability to perform basic activities of daily living such as reading and driving.
Diagnosing Macular Degeneration
The diagnosis of macular degeneration is based on an examination of the eye by an eye specialist or ophthalmologist. The initial tests include an examination of the retina as well as measurement of the sharpness of vision. A brief test using an Amsler grid that measures your central vision may be performed. A doctor may ask you about any symptoms of macular degeneration you are experiencing.
Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
Slow, or in very rare cases a sudden, painless loss of vision are common symptoms of macular degeneration
Blurred or shadowy areas in your central vision
Blind spots
Straight lines that when viewed look irregular or bent
Objects appearing in a different color or shape (when viewed with each of the eyes)
What Causes Macular Degeneration?
The exact cause of macular degeneration is unknown but it is believed that aging, genetics as well as environmental factors all contribute to the onset of symptoms of macular degeneration.
Common Causes of Macular Degeneration
* Age - macular degeneration increases with age
* Race - although macular degeneration occurs in all races, it is more common in Caucasian individuals
* Gender - women have been found to be at higher risk of macular degeneration
* Family history - it has also been found that macular degeneration tends to be hereditary
* Exposure to sunlight
* High Blood Pressure
* Smoking
* Obesity
* Drug side effects
Natural Remedies for Macular Degeneration
Natural and holistic treatments can also help to promote healthy vision and reduce symptoms including blurred vision, hemorrhaging of the eyes, and disorders of the retina. Treatments such as herbal and Homeopathic Remedies can provide a gentle alternative to conventional drugs, and at the same time address overall health and wellbeing.
Natural macular degeneration Supplements may include Herbs such as Vaccinium myrtillus (bilberry) which has well known anti-oxidant properties, ensuring the health of all cells and tissues of the body, including the eyes, and also assist with Circulation. Bilberry also helps to facilitate delivery of essential oxygen and nutrients to the eye and has been the subject of numerous research studies related to ocular health.
Other macular degeneration Supplements include Aspalathus linearis (Rooibos) which is an effective all round tonic for the Immune System and helps to maintain digestive health, liver functioning and promote healthy blood sugar levels.
Sutherlandia frutescens is also commonly used in macular degeneration Supplements for its adaptogenic properties as well as anti-oxidant effects. Remember to always ensure your Natural Remedies are sourced from reputable companies for maximum safety, therapeutic dosage and effectiveness.
There are no proven methods to prevent macular degeneration but there are helpful ways to care for your eyes and to ensure good visual health.
Eye Care Tips
Consult an ophthalmologist or eye specialist immediately if you experience any signs of vision loss.
Use of the Amsler grid can help you to detect slight changes in your vision - this test helps you to monitor your vision daily in the comfort of your home.
Stop smoking naturally, as Smokers have a higher risk of developing macular degeneration.
Eat a healthy balanced diet packed with leafy green vegetables.
Protect your eyes from sun exposure by wearing sunglasses to block ultraviolet sunrays.
Increase your intake of nutritional Supplements such as Antioxidants and zinc.
People over 65 years should have regular vision exams that include screening for age-related macular degeneration.
Download the full 'Macular Degeneration - What it is, Causes, Symptoms, Treatments' information as a pdf ebook - Right click and choose 'save as'
Download the full 'Macular Degeneration - What it is, Causes, Symptoms, Treatments' information as a pdf ebook - Right click and choose 'save as'
You can also find many more *free* natural health ebooks at Remedies4.com
What is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is a disorder that affects central vision - what you see directly in front of you as opposed to your peripheral or side vision.
The macula is the central portion of the retina, the paper-thin tissue at the back of the eye where light-sensitive cells send visual signals to the brain, and is responsible for detailed vision.
Macular degeneration occurs when the central part of the retina deteriorates. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD or ARMD) is the most common eye disease and is in fact the leading cause of visual impairment and blindness in the United States in people over the age of 50.
Damage to the macula results in the development of blind spots and blurred or distorted vision and can hamper your ability to perform basic activities of daily living such as reading and driving.
Diagnosing Macular Degeneration
The diagnosis of macular degeneration is based on an examination of the eye by an eye specialist or ophthalmologist. The initial tests include an examination of the retina as well as measurement of the sharpness of vision. A brief test using an Amsler grid that measures your central vision may be performed. A doctor may ask you about any symptoms of macular degeneration you are experiencing.
Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
Slow, or in very rare cases a sudden, painless loss of vision are common symptoms of macular degeneration
Blurred or shadowy areas in your central vision
Blind spots
Straight lines that when viewed look irregular or bent
Objects appearing in a different color or shape (when viewed with each of the eyes)
What Causes Macular Degeneration?
The exact cause of macular degeneration is unknown but it is believed that aging, genetics as well as environmental factors all contribute to the onset of symptoms of macular degeneration.
Common Causes of Macular Degeneration
* Age - macular degeneration increases with age
* Race - although macular degeneration occurs in all races, it is more common in Caucasian individuals
* Gender - women have been found to be at higher risk of macular degeneration
* Family history - it has also been found that macular degeneration tends to be hereditary
* Exposure to sunlight
* High Blood Pressure
* Smoking
* Obesity
* Drug side effects
Natural Remedies for Macular Degeneration
Natural and holistic treatments can also help to promote healthy vision and reduce symptoms including blurred vision, hemorrhaging of the eyes, and disorders of the retina. Treatments such as herbal and Homeopathic Remedies can provide a gentle alternative to conventional drugs, and at the same time address overall health and wellbeing.
Natural macular degeneration Supplements may include Herbs such as Vaccinium myrtillus (bilberry) which has well known anti-oxidant properties, ensuring the health of all cells and tissues of the body, including the eyes, and also assist with Circulation. Bilberry also helps to facilitate delivery of essential oxygen and nutrients to the eye and has been the subject of numerous research studies related to ocular health.
Other macular degeneration Supplements include Aspalathus linearis (Rooibos) which is an effective all round tonic for the Immune System and helps to maintain digestive health, liver functioning and promote healthy blood sugar levels.
Sutherlandia frutescens is also commonly used in macular degeneration Supplements for its adaptogenic properties as well as anti-oxidant effects. Remember to always ensure your Natural Remedies are sourced from reputable companies for maximum safety, therapeutic dosage and effectiveness.
There are no proven methods to prevent macular degeneration but there are helpful ways to care for your eyes and to ensure good visual health.
Eye Care Tips
Consult an ophthalmologist or eye specialist immediately if you experience any signs of vision loss.
Use of the Amsler grid can help you to detect slight changes in your vision - this test helps you to monitor your vision daily in the comfort of your home.
Stop smoking naturally, as Smokers have a higher risk of developing macular degeneration.
Eat a healthy balanced diet packed with leafy green vegetables.
Protect your eyes from sun exposure by wearing sunglasses to block ultraviolet sunrays.
Increase your intake of nutritional Supplements such as Antioxidants and zinc.
People over 65 years should have regular vision exams that include screening for age-related macular degeneration.
Download the full 'Macular Degeneration - What it is, Causes, Symptoms, Treatments' information as a pdf ebook - Right click and choose 'save as'
Companion Remedy for Macular Degeneration
Vizu-All Plus - Natural Remedy for visual and circulatory health
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