Macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is a term that describes a degenerative visual condition in which the central part of the retina (the macular) thins down. The macular is responsible for clear vision in the central part of the eye, so when the macular is affected, sufferers may have blurred vision and even lose vision in their direct line of sight altogether (although their peripheral vision will not be affected). Age related macular degeneration (AMD or ARMD) is very common and is classed as a normal part of aging, however that doesn’t mean that it cannot be treated.

There are 2 types of macular degeneration: wet and dry.

• Dry macular degeneration – the most common type, this is where the macular thins during the aging process. Small clumps of protein form (called drusen) and block the vision.
• Wet macular degeneration – this is rarer but more serious; wet macular degeneration is when new and abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina. It causes faster vision loss as the fluids leaked by these vessels scar the macula.

Whilst macular degeneration cannot be halted, there are supplements and treatments available to try and slow the process down. These include retina peptides, comfort drops for the eyes and Can-C capsules. In addition, taking supplements to slow down the overall process of aging can be beneficial as well as making lifestyle changes such as diet, losing weight and giving up smoking.