MACULAR DEGENERATION
EVEN IF YOU HAVEN'T THE VAGUEST idea what macular degeneration is, it probably doesn't sound good. And it isn't. This eye condition, which involves the deterioration of the centre of the retina, is the leading cause of progressive blindness in people aged 65 and older.
Macular degeneration can he caused by exposure to light or chemicals as
well as by normal metabolic processes. Another culprit is free radicals,
those rogue compounds that steal electrons from healthy cells. Free radicals
oxidise fatty acids in cell membranes and in enzyme systems. Within the retina
of the eye, such cell damage can disturb energy production and the chemical
balance of the eye's fluids.
Antioxidants in your body can counteract this process, but they can't do
it fast enough when free radical levels are high or when your diet is deficient
in antioxidants. That's why poor diet is a risk factor for macular degeneration.
Other
factors include family history of the disorder, ageing, high blood pressure
and heart disease narrowing the arteries.
Macular degeneration can be diagnosed in its earliest stages, a good reason
to see your optician annually even if you have no symptoms. People who already
have macular degeneration should keep regular appointments with an optician
to monitor their response to treatment.
KEEPING YOUR SIGHT CLEAR
Lifestyle changes not only can help treat macular degeneration but also can
prevent it. If you have the disorder or have a family history of it, here
are some tips.
Protect your eyes. Avoid excess exposure to the sun; wear good-quality
protective sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun's ultraviolet radiation.
Stop smoking. In addition to the other health problems they cause, cigarettes
increase free radicals, one of the causes of macular degeneration.
Avoid other
chemical exposures. They're also a source of free radicals.
Boost antioxidants in your diet. Eat more carrots, squash, and other orange
and yellow vegetables, as well as dark, leafy greens and flavourrich
berries such as blueberries, blackberries and cherries. Citrus fruits are
high in vitamin C, the best-known antioxidant; beans and peas provide antioxidant
amino acids.
DRUG TREATMENT
Conventional Western ophthalmic opticians often suggest taking antioxidants
as a treatment for macular degeneration. Several antioxidant brands are
specifically formulated for the condition. Clinical studies have confirmed
that best results are obtained when using combinations of selenium, vitamins
C and E, and beta-carotene.
When macular degeneration is detected early, its progress may be slowed by laser surgery, which preserves your sight for a longer period of time. Laser surgery is also used for a rare variety of the disease called exudative macular degeneration, in which a part of the retina discharges a pus-like substance.
HERBAL REMEDIES
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)
This anthocyanoside-rich herb has strong antioxidant effects. Typical dosage:
one 80- to 160milligram extract capsule standardised to 25 per cent anthocyanidin
three times per day. Caution: in rare cases bilberry may cause wind, gastrointestinal
upset, dizziness or headaches.
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
Another powerful antioxidant, ginkgo has been shown to improve vision in
people with macular degeneration. Typical dosage: one 40- to 60-milligram
capsule standardised to 24 per cent flavone glycosides three times per day.
Caution: ginkgo may cause gastrointestinal upset, dizziness or headaches.
