Macular Degeneration is an eye condition characterized by ..

Ø     Dark, blurred or empty spots in the center of your field of vision

Ø     A gradual loss of clear vision

Ø     Distorted vision

Ø     Diminishing color perception

It is the leading cause of vision loss for people over 60 years of age. It is estimated that up to 15 million Americans are affected. Macular Degeneration, sometimes referred to as Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), can affect one or both eyes. If left untreated, AMD can become worse over time and may lead to a loss of vision.

There is no known definitive cause or known cure for AMD. However, if symptoms are caught early enough, there are ways to slow, stop or even reverse the effects. There is evidence that nutrition, vitamins, minerals and herbs can play a role in supporting eye health.

HOW DOES MACULAR DEGENERATION OCCUR?

Macular Degeneration is a condition where, in simple terms, material from the eye builds up and blocks or distorts a portion the macula. The macula is responsible for sharp central vision and color definition. Usually, but not always, this distortion affects only the central portion of the macula, leaving peripheral (side vision) intact as shown in the diagram below.

             CLEAR VISION                            DISTORTED VISION

Diagrams, courtesy of  The Macular Degeneration Handbook

TYPES OF AMD – WET AND DRY

To understand this distortion more specifically, it is important to first differentiate between the two types of AMD, commonly described as “dry” and “wet” types.

The most common type of AMD is the dry type. According to the American Association of Ophthalmologists, “90% of all AMD cases are of the dry type”.

"Dry" type distortion occurs as a result of a build up of cellular material in the eye known as cones. These cones are normally for light sensing. When they die, if not properly removed by the eye system, they create a build-up of dead cones, turning yellow and blocking light, hence impairing vision. In many cases, people experience this by seeing straight lines that appear be wavy. The progression of this condition is usually slow. While it is not known why this occurs, there is some evidence that poor availability of oxygen leads to improper maintenance of these cells.

In the “wet” type of AMD, there is a fluid and pressure build up directly behind the macula. This pressure affects the macula, creating distorted vision. The fluid build-up is caused by abnormal growth and league of blood vessels behind the macula. It is not understood why this occurs. The onset of wet AMD can be more sudden and severe. [ For a more complete description of wet and dry types of AMD, refer to The Macular Degeneration Handbook ]

WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR YOURSELF

First and foremost, it is always recommended that you consult your health care professional for initial and ongoing care of your eyes. While there is no known cure for AMD, there are treatments that can help with symptoms.

In The Macular Degeneration Handbook by Chet Cunningham, a wide range of alternative and natural ways to provide symptom relief are discussed. The author is careful to point out that there is no panacea – not everyone may receive the same benefit and to the same degree. His practical approach includes eye exercises, nutrition, and dietary supplements. His first-hand experience as an AMD sufferer, gives added credibility.

ALL-NATURAL ALTERNATIVES

Research suggests that AMD sufferers can benefit from taking nutritional supplements. For example, a study sponsored by the National Eye Institute has shown that a combination of vitamin E, Vitamin C, beta carotene, zinc and copper, helps reduce the risk of developing advanced macular degeneration and delayed progression of the disease in 25 percent of those who took them. For more information on this study, called the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), visit the National Eye Institute’s Web site at www.nei.nih.gov/amd.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin are carotenoid pigments found in your eyes. Depleted amounts in the eye are associated with AMD. A study at The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Departments of Ophthalmology and Epidemiology suggested "higher levels of zeaxanthin/lutein in the diet or in the plasma" (a constituent of blood), "were associated with reduced the risk for advanced stages of AMD". (For more information, visit http://www.eyesight.org/Research/Research-Zeaxanthin/research-zeaxanthin.html) .

Lutein and zeaxanthin are found in dark-leafy vegetables like spinach, collard greens, or kale. For people whose diets may not include foods rich in these nutrients, there are liquid supplements available. (For more information on Nutritional Supplements that can support Eye Health, please Click Here).

RISKS

According to the National Institutes of Health, these are the risks associated with AMD

Ø     Increasing age, especially after 60 years old.

Ø     Smoking.

Ø    Obesity - There may be a link between obesity and the progression of early and intermediate stage AMD to advanced AMD.

Ø    Race - Whites are much more likely to lose vision from AMD than African Americans.

Ø   Family history - People with a family history of AMD are at higher risk of getting the disease.

Ø    Gender - Women appear to be at greater risk than men.

GET MORE INFORMATION

The Macular Degeneration Handbook, is a book that can help AMD sufferers. It is written in easy-to understand English and contains a wealth of information in such areas as: causes, treatments, basics on eye functioning, eye care, nutritional support, and exercises. This book is published by United Research Publishers. It is often recommended by Ophthalmologists to their patients because it provides an overview of the condition and treatments for AMD and can answer many questions.

SOME SATISFIED READERS

"Thanks for the very informative book. Hard to get information like that from doctors".        LR - Salem, OR

"I am 87 years old and was diagnosed with macular degeneration. I was very concerned because my vision was impaired. I ordered The Macular Degeneration Handbook and after reading it, and buying the vitamin suggested, my vision has improved tremendously. I am overjoyed and feel much better. I will forever be grateful for this wonderful book…"        ML. - Birmingham, AL

"This information is, without a doubt, the most comprehensive and concise I have ever read. As one with failing eyesight, I appreciate the condensed booklet. I could have used this 20 years ago!"        MP. - Downey, CA

"The Macular Degeneration Handbook you sent to me is just wonderful! It answers all of my questions and I have had quite a few. Just having read it made me feel so much better."        A.L. - Charlotte, NC
 

NUTRIENTS TO SUPPORT EYE HEALTH

You can also learn about new nutritional supplements available to support eye health in a unique liquid-spray form, VisionSpray.