Macular degeneration is where the middle area of the retina or macula deteriorates. This leads to blurry and distorted central vision. Macular degeneration can develop into a blind spot in its worst form.
Cause
The exact cause for macular degeneration is unknown. It is associated with age related changes in the eyes of people over 50 years old.
Dry Macular Degeneration
Dry macular degeneration is the first stage of this disease. It is caused by the thinning of the macula tissues in the eyes and leads to a gradual vision loss.
Wet Macular Degeneration
Wet macular degeneration is the severe form of the disease. It is caused by abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina. Fluid or blood leaks around the retina and nerve tissue is destroyed. Vision loss happens very quickly during this stage.
Risk
People at risk of developing macular degeneration are people over the age of 60, people with a family history of the disease or people who have been diagnosed with hypertension, high cholesterol, or heart disease.
Diet
Eating food high in lutein and zeaxanthin can lower the risk of developing macular degeneration. Examples include egg yolks, yellow corn, kiwi fruits, grapes, spinach, orange juice, zucchini and squash.
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