The older a person becomes, the more at risk they are for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in people over 60. Thankfully, research shows that a particular combination of minerals and vitamins known as the AREDS2 formulation can often slow the advancement of AMD.
At Sight Improvement Center, we specialize in the diagnosis and co-management of macular degeneration and other eye conditions.
What Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is a severe eye condition that causes the central vision to deteriorate. It is the leading cause of permanent vision loss in older adults. It happens when the macula (the part of the retina responsible for sharp and detailed vision) is damaged and makes doing daily activities challenging.
AMD can manifest in two different ways: dry and wet.
The most common type of AMD is dry AMD, which accounts for more than 90% of cases. Dry AMD results in gradual vision loss over many years due to the thinning of the macula. Symptoms like hazy vision only appear after significant vision loss has already occurred.
Wet AMD is a rare but more severe form of the disease, and is caused by new, fragile blood vessels that leak and harm the macula. It occurs quickly and leads to sudden vision loss if not treated promptly. The good news is that wet AMD can often be treated with eye injections.
What Are the Benefits of Taking AREDS2 Supplements for Eyes?
The AREDS2 formulation is widely acknowledged as an important part of maintaining good eye health in patients with AMD. It’s a blend of antioxidants like zeaxanthin and lutein, vitamins C and E, zinc, and copper. This regimen has been found to be effective in lowering the likelihood of AMD advancement by various studies.
The National Eye Institute states that AREDS2 supplements can effectively slow down the advancement of intermediate AMD and decrease the risk of dry AMD transforming into more severe wet AMD. Additionally, in instances where only one eye has been affected, AREDS2 supplements may also slow the onset and progression of AMD in the other eye.
Methods to Reduce the Risk of Macular Degeneration
While there’s no absolute way to prevent macular degeneration, taking certain measures can reduce the risk. These include maintaining a healthy weight and blood pressure, not smoking, and wearing sunglasses that block 100% of the sun’s harmful UV rays. Eating healthy foods that are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin — which are found in leafy greens, eggs, and nuts, among other things — can also lower the risk of AMD.
Early detection and treatment of macular degeneration is crucial because it improves the chances of preserving vision. By the time symptoms of AMD appear, vision loss may have already occurred, which is why getting regular comprehensive eye exams is so important.
Your Eye Exam With Sight Improvement Center
At Sight Improvement Center in New York City, our team is dedicated to providing you with the best care possible. Whether you're looking for treatment options for AMD or have other vision health concerns, our staff will take the time to understand your needs and provide you with the appropriate care.
Our practice serves patients from New York City, Manhatten, The Bronx, and Brooklyn, New York and surrounding communities. .