Nearly 20 million Americans are living with macular degeneration, and many struggle with the day-to-day realities of living with it.
Age-related macular degeneration is an eye disease that starts off by causing aging spots to for under the macula (dry macular degeneration) and 1 in 10 people with dry macular degeneration develop leaky blood vessels under the macula (called wet macular degeneration). It becomes more common as we age and is the most common cause of vision loss in older Americans.
In both wet and dry macular degeneration, the retina begins to weaken, leading to symptoms like blurry or distorted vision that can interfere with daily life, particularly with reading and driving. Below, we’re sharing four things to know about surviving – and thriving – with macular degeneration or some vision loss in general, including where to look for macular degeneration support and assistance.
Visual changes are the main symptoms of macular degeneration and are often the first clue that something is wrong.
Fortunately, complete blindness is really rare with macular degeneration. Instead, the condition tends to produce a spectrum of vision problems that vary in severity. This includes things like:
Macular degeneration occurs in three stages, with the first stage generally producing no symptoms and requiring no treatment. If you experience one or more of the vision concerns noted above, you’re likely in either the intermediate or advanced stage of the condition. The late stage of macular degeneration is when irreversible vision loss may occur, but you can take action to prevent it.
When it comes to managing macular degeneration, even the little things you do can make a big difference in the outcome of the disease.
Swap processed, fried, and sugary options when possible with foods your grandma would recognize. These include dark green leafy vegetables like broccoli and spinach, foods high in omega-3 fatty acids including fatty fish and nuts such as almonds and walnuts, and fresh fruit, which have been shown to improve eye health when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Carrots are still good for your eyes, too!
The common visual challenges of macular degeneration, including blind spots and difficulty recognizing faces, can’t be eliminated. But you can learn to navigate around them with the help of assistive devices, enhanced lighting in the home, and strategic use of color contrast. Speak to your retina specialist for advice on potential vision workarounds and assistance in selecting the right tools.
So many individuals and families are impacted by macular degeneration. Look for support groups and community organizations in your local area that focus on macular degeneration, and consider working with a low-vision specialist in addition to your retina specialist.
Make use of your regular support system, too. It helps to have emotional and practical support from friends, families, and/or professional caregivers, and it never hurts to have your loved ones understand what you’re going through.
Macular degeneration is far from the end of the world, but it does require a few lifestyle changes. Lifestyle recommendations for living with macular degeneration (or low vision) include:
You can’t underestimate the importance of dietary changes, support systems, and adaptive strategies for dealing with wet or dry macular degeneration. Equally important, though, is to consult with your retina specialist who can assess your condition and provide you with personalized advice for living your healthiest life.
Mid Atlantic Retina, a world leader in treating macular degeneration, accepts patients who have AMD. We offer the skills, diagnostics, and treatments you need in order to live fully with a macular degeneration diagnosis. Please contact us to learn more about managing your condition, as well as to schedule an appointment with a Mid Atlantic Retina specialist.
