5 Healthy Habits to Lower Your Risk of AMD

AMD (age-related macular degeneration) isn't curble. However, early diagnosis and management is very important to slow down the progression of this condition and prevent vision loss. Here's how you can lower your risk of developing AMD and why visiting your Calgary eye doctor as you age is so important.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition and one of the leading causes of vision loss in older adults. Only your optometrist can detect this disease through your routine eye exam because AMD doesn't often present any symptoms in its early stages. However, the following signs could indicate that you need to visit your optometrist for emergency care: 

• Blurry, dark areas in the centre of your vision 
• Difficulty recognizing faces
• Diminished colour perception 
• Straight lines appear distorted 
• You are finding it difficult to perform every day activities 

Our Calgary Eye Doctors Can Help Manage AMD and Protect Your Vision 

At our Calgary eye clinic, our team of Calgary eye doctors can help diagnose and manage age-related macular degeneration early on to prevent any harmful effects to your vision. We also offer a range of other ocular health services including senior eye exams and eye emergency care to lower your risk of vision loss and enhance the quality of your life. 

Want to know more? 

CONTACT OUR CALGARY EYE CLINIC 

5 Ways to Lower Your Risk of Developing Age-Related Macular Degeneration 

Age-related macular degeneration is a serious eye condition that can result in vision loss and affect your quality of life. By gradually reducing your central vision, AMD makes it hard to see fine details, recognize faces, and perform daily activities such as using the computer, driving, and reading. 

Here are some of the main causes of AMD and some simple steps you can take to lower your risk of developing this eye condition: 

1. Quit smoking. Smoking has been shown to significantly increase your risk of developing AMD. In fact, current smokers are up to four times more likely to develop this eye condition than non-smokers. By quitting smoking you will not only protect your vision but also your overall health. 

2. Become more active. Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle can increase your risk of AMD and vision loss. Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can reduce your risk and protect your eyesight. You can even begin with gentle exercise such as regular walking for 30 minutes at least three times a week. 

3. Stick to a healthy diet. Studies have shown that a diet rich in antioxidants can protect you against AMD. Make sure to add dark leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli, and collard greens), orange fruits (mangoes, cantaloupe, and oranges), as well as omega-3s to your diet to keep your eyes healthy. Also, try to limit your intake of sugar and processed foods. (3 Healthy Eating Habits That Can Protect Your Vision >)

4. Get your blood pressure under control. Your eyes contain many tiny blood vessels, which means that high blood pressure can have a serious impact on your ocular health. If you have high blood pressure, make sure to follow any advice you are given to bring it under control, whether that means making changes to your medication, lifestyle, diet, or exercise routine. 

5. Talk to your eye doctor about UV and blue light protection. Long-term exposure to UV rays from the sun and blue light (from your digital devices) have been linked to an increased risk of AMD. Make sure you always wear your sunglasses when you are outside and talk to your eye doctor about fitting your eyeglasses with blue light lenses if you use your computer or smartphone for extended periods of time. (How Regular Eye Exams Prevent Vision Loss From AMD)

Contact Our Calgary Eye Clinic 

If you are experiencing sudden changes to your vision, require emergency eye care, or you’re due for an eye exam, our team of eye doctors can help! To learn more about our ocular health services or to book an appointment, contact our Calgary eye clinic at 403-280-7518 or fill out our online contact form.

FAQs 

Q: Can I see for myself if my retina or macula show any signs of damage?
No. It’s impossible to examine your own retina. You will need to have a full eye exam from your eye doctor, who will typically dilate your pupil to get a clearer view of your retina. Only your eye doctor can diagnose AMD. 

Q: Is AMD painful?
No. AMD doesn’t cause any pain. In fact, in its early stages, AMD might not even present any symptoms. That’s why regular eye exams with your optometrist are so important. A painful eye can be due to a number of other conditions and should be addressed by your eye doctor immediately. 

Q: Can AMD be cured?
There is no cure for age-related macular degeneration. However, there are treatments available that will slow the progression of the disease and lower your risk of severe vision loss. Talk to your eye doctor about the best way to manage your condition.