Macular degeneration, or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a common eye condition that impacts millions of people. It affects the macula, the central part of the retina, which allows you to see fine details and colors clearly. Over time, macular degeneration can lead to blurry vision and central vision loss, making everyday tasks like reading or driving more difficult. It’s a leading cause of low vision, or visual impairment that can’t be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery.
While anyone can develop AMD, some people have a higher risk. Understanding who is most at risk can help you take proactive steps to protect your eye health. In this blog, we’ll share some factors that increase the likelihood of developing AMD and ways to lower your risk.
Age
Age is the number one risk factor for age-related macular degeneration. People over 50 are more likely to develop AMD, and the risk increases after 60. While we can’t stop the aging process, regular eye exams are even more critical as you get older. The earlier AMD is detected, the better your chances of managing it effectively.
Family history and genetics
If someone in your family has macular degeneration, your risk of developing it is higher. Genetics plays a significant role in whether you may develop AMD. If you know that a parent or sibling has the condition, let your eye doctor know. This will help them keep a close eye on your vision and recommend preventive measures to help reduce your risk.
Race
Caucasians are more likely to develop AMD than people of other racial or ethnic backgrounds. Anyone can be affected by macular degeneration, but those with lighter skin and eye colors should be particularly aware of this risk and prioritize regular checkups.
UV exposure
While the link between UV light and AMD isn’t fully understood, it’s still a good idea to protect your eyes from the sun. UV rays may contribute to the development of AMD over time. Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays can help safeguard your eyes and lower your risk.
Smoking
Smoking can have a serious impact on your eye health, significantly increasing the risk of macular degeneration. Smokers are up to four times more likely to develop AMD compared to non-smokers. Quitting smoking benefits both your overall health and your eyes, reducing the risk of developing eye conditions like AMD.
High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
If you have high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease, you may be at a higher risk for AMD. These conditions affect the blood vessels in your eyes, leading to problems that can contribute to macular degeneration. Managing your blood pressure and keeping your heart healthy can help protect your vision.
Gender
Women tend to live longer than men, and because AMD is age-related, women have a slightly higher chance of suffering from this condition. The longer lifespan gives AMD more time to develop, which is why it’s important for women, especially those over 50, to schedule regular eye exams.
Poor diet
A poor diet can also contribute to a higher risk of developing AMD. Diets high in processed foods and low in essential nutrients may negatively impact eye health. Incorporating more leafy greens, fish rich in omega-3s, and nuts into your meals can help protect your vision. These nutrient-dense foods contain vitamins and minerals that support healthy eyes and may reduce the risk of AMD.
Ways to reduce your risk of AMD
Even though you can’t control some of the risk factors like age or genetics, there are several things you can do to protect your eyes and reduce your chances of developing AMD:
- Quit smoking.
- Eat a healthy diet rich in leafy greens, omega-3s, and antioxidants.
- Get regular eye exams, especially if you’re over 50 or have a family history of AMD.
- Protect your eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses.
- Stay active and maintain a healthy weight to support good circulation.
If you fall into one or more of these risk categories, it’s important to see an eye doctor regularly to protect your vision. Macular degeneration doesn’t have to lead to vision loss if it’s detected and managed early. At Giles Eye Care in Portland, Maine, we can help you preserve your vision and keep your eyes healthy. If you have concerns or questions about macular degeneration, give us a call today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam in Portland!