Macular Degeneration
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| Macular Degeneration |
Definition:
The macula is the most sensitive point in the retina, a nerve-rich area at the back of the eye crucial for vision. Macular degeneration typically initiates after the age of sixty, often for reasons not fully understood. As the macula deteriorates, central vision functions collapse, impairing the ability to discern fine details in images. Smokers face increased susceptibility to this condition, with one theory implicating reactive oxygen species (free radicals) as causative agents. Antioxidants play a role in preventing damage in such cases. Fresh fruits and vegetables are recognized as potent antioxidants.
age related macular degeneration:
When deterioration occurs, especially in the elderly,
changes in the body are certain to follow. One of these changes is retinal
degeneration. It is difficult to avoid, so understanding age-related macular
degeneration (AMD) is important and should not be overlooked. AMD is a disease
that leads to loss of clear central vision, with yellow deposits on the retina.
The disease is also accompanied by changes in the retinal pigment epithelium
and the appearance of new blood vessels, leading to loss of the retinal pigment
epithelium layer, subretinal fluid, retinal bleeding, and subretinal fibrosis.
Age-related macular degeneration can be divided into two types:
1. Dry AMD: Characterized by the presence of numerous yellow
spots on the retina, and in advanced stages, retinal degeneration may occur,
usually without severe vision loss.
2. Wet AMD: Characterized by the growth of new blood vessels
in the deep layers of the retina, leading to retinal bleeding, subretinal
fluid, and subretinal fibrosis. This type is the main cause of severe vision
loss.
There are risk factors that should be known, including:
1. Age: If you are 75 years or older, the risk of developing
the disease is three times higher than individuals aged 65 to 74.
2. Smoking: Smokers are found to be at double the risk of
vision loss due to age-related macular degeneration compared to non-smokers.
However, in individuals who quit smoking, there is a slightly increased risk,
and if they quit smoking for more than 20 years, there is no risk of vision
loss due to age-related macular degeneration compared to those who have never
smoked.
3. Genetics: Studies have found that certain genes
contribute to an increased risk of disease and response to treatment. This may
help in identifying future treatments..
macular
degeneration treatment
Pharmaceutical treatment:
When it comes to treating age-related macular degeneration in older adults, it is best to avoid risk factors such as smoking and maintaining weight at a reasonable level. Dry age-related macular degeneration in the elderly can be treated by taking dietary supplements containing antioxidants and minerals, according to studies like AREDS and AREDS2. These supplements have been shown to help reduce the risk of advanced macular degeneration by 25% and decrease the risk of vision loss in the center of the image by 19%.
As for age-related wet macular degeneration, the most effective and popular treatment currently is the use of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs. These drugs are injected into the vitreous fluid in the eye. There are currently two groups of drugs used in this treatment, which are anti-vascular endothelial growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor trap.
Additionally, there are other treatments available for
patients suffering from wet macular degeneration, such as cold laser therapy
and hot laser therapy. The appropriate treatment for each case is selected
based on the assessment of the treating physician and the patient's condition.
Herbal treatment:
Kale and Spinach Leaves:
Green kale and spinach leaves contain lutein and zeaxanthin, acting as antioxidants while providing vitamins C and E. Additionally, turnips, radishes, and mustard greens are among the vegetables rich in these compounds.
Grapes:
Belonging to the family of cherries and plums, scientific research and herbal studies have demonstrated that these fruits contain anthocyanin compounds, potent antioxidants, and the renowned beta-carotene compounds with antioxidant properties. They also contribute to improved night vision and expanded visual field. A mixture of dried grapes, ginger, and butchers broom has been formulated to prevent macular degeneration, treat it, and strengthen the blood vessels in the retina. Method: Steep dried grapes in boiling water for 15 minutes. You can drink a cup of this infusion every 6 hours, four times a day.
Peanuts:
Genistein, found in peanuts and soybeans, prevents retinal
breakdown, thus hindering macular degeneration. Many legumes contain a
significant amount of this compound, especially peanuts, which are also rich in
the antioxidant compound proanthocyanidin.
You can eat a few Sudanese seeds daily as a preventive measure against corneal degeneration.
Ginkgo:
Ginkgo extract helps maintain blood flow to the retina, with ginkgo leaves containing active antioxidant compounds. The most effective way to benefit from ginkgo is by using standardized extract prepared at a ratio of 150:1, meaning 50 pounds of leaves chemically processed to yield one pound of extract. Adding the leaves to certain fruits for consumption is permissible, with a recommended dosage not exceeding 300 mg of extract daily. Note: if ginkgo causes diarrhea or tension, dosage reduction is advised.
Clove:
Clove oil is a potent antioxidant, research has shown its efficacy in preventing the breakdown of docosahexaenoic acid in the retina, thereby preserving vision in late age. Adding a drop of powdered antioxidant herb oil and consuming four cups daily is recommended.
Wolfberry:
Wolfberry is rich in antioxidants and contains beneficial plant pigment known as carotenoids, making it a traditional and effective remedy for vision problems and blurred vision.
Carrot:
Carrots are popularly known to be beneficial for vision, which is not merely a folk belief but a scientifically validated fact. Carrots contain carotenoids, compounds that protect against various eye diseases by safeguarding the eye and enhancing beneficial retinal blood circulation.
Rosemary:
Rosemary, also known as Rosmarinus officinalis, is a type of mint rich in antioxidants. These compounds protect cells from the damaging effects of free radicals, which cause breakdown and erosion. Conditions necessitating antioxidant treatment benefit from rosemary's antioxidant properties, providing protection, fortification, and cellular strength.
Conclusion:
The article discusses macular degeneration, a condition
affecting the macula in the retina, crucial for central vision. Typically
occurring after age sixty, it leads to central vision impairment, with smokers
facing higher risk due to free radicals. Antioxidants, abundant in fresh fruits
and vegetables, are essential in preventing damage. The article suggests green
therapies like kale, spinach, grapes, peanuts, ginkgo, clove, wolfberry,
carrot, and rosemary, all rich in antioxidants, to combat macular degeneration
and enhance vision health.