Macular degeneration may not be a phrase you’d know offhand, but for ophthalmologists and optometrists, it’s instantly recognizable as the single biggest cause of adult vision loss in the United States.

Although it may be a mouthful, macular degeneration concerns one of the most important parts of your retina, the macula. It’s the central portion of the retina that sees the fine details used in precision work, reading, and other situations requiring keen vision. Macular degeneration comes in two forms:

  • “Dry form” occurs when yellow deposits, called drusen, build up over your macula. A few small drusen are common in most eyes, but as they get bigger and more numerous, they can begin to distort or dim your vision. If unaddressed, this can cause blind spots or loss of central vision.
  • “Wet form” occurs when blood vessels grow improperly underneath the macula. These tend to leak blood and other fluids into your retina, distorting vision so that lines you know to be straight become blurry. Severe cases will also lead to blind spots and loss of central vision.

While eye doctors can prevent the worsening of macular degeneration and, in some cases, even restore distorted vision, the best cure is prevention. Thankfully, healthy living does just that.

Eat At Least Three Fruits a Day

You already know that a diet high in fruits and vegetables is essential for good overall health. However, a study from the Archives of Ophthalmology1 indicated that eating 3 or more servings of fruit daily can lower your risk of age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) by 36%.

The study evaluated over 100,000 participants’ food intake, including fruits, vegetables, antioxidants A, C and E, and carotenoids. After evaluating the effects of each on the early stages of macular degeneration, the study concluded that fruit was more protective than any other foods against the disease (even more than carrots!).

Incorporation of fruits is an easy way to get the sugar fix you might crave in between meals. Stock your counter and work fridge with portable fruits like:

  • Apples
  • Kiwis
  • Oranges
  • Plums

Bananas and varieties of berries are especially good for smoothies or topping your morning cereal. Fruit juices of any kind are excellent pick-me-ups after workouts, but keep an eye on the added sugar content in a serving size.

Exercise A Few Times Each Week

We like to joke that exercise seems to be included in virtually every “how to prevent” article, but this is especially true for preventing macular degeneration.

“Dry form” macular degeneration occurs partly because of insufficient oxygen levels, sometimes caused by poor circulation. This might cause the retina cells to die and form the basis of drusen. Exercise, even if it’s “just” a brisk walk or yoga, floods your circulatory system with oxygen and can help restore healthy levels of circulation, ensuring longer-living retina cells.

Wear Sunglasses and Brimmed Hats When Outside

Whether it’s a snowy winter day reflecting bright sunlight or a summer day full of outdoor activity, exposing your eyes to abundant UV rays can accelerate the aging process for your retina cells, potentially leading to the dry form of macular degeneration. Make certain the glasses are 100% UV protection—glasses without that certification can fool you into thinking you’re protected when you’re not.

Good Habits Make for Good Vision

Like any disease, daily habits like diet, exercise, and proper protection build the best defense. But you can boost your long-term optical health considerably by adding just one more thing: regular check-ins with an eye doctor.

Your eye doctor will notice problems long before you do in your everyday vision – and help keep these problems from ever becoming noticeable. Why not schedule a check-in this month? With over eight offices in the Roanoke area and additional offices in Danville, Martinsville, Blacksburg, Smith Mountain Lake, and Wytheville, Vistar Eye Center’s doctors are accessible and eager to ensure that you always see life’s unique moments.

Schedule your next appointment at a convenient location today.