Can Macular Degeneration be Prevented?

Macular degeneration is a term to hear from your eye doctor in Falls Church, VA, and we don’t want to be the messenger of bad news. This terrible condition is a leading cause of vision loss, particularly in older adults. The worst part is, it can’t be completely prevented. But there are definitely things you can do to reduce the risk or slow its progression.

Eat Right

We can’t emphasize enough the importance of a healthy diet. Not only can eating right keep your body strong, but it helps keep your eyes healthy. If you doubt it, you should know that nutrients such as vitamins C and E, zinc, and beta-carotene have been shown in scientific studies to support eye health. Dark leafy greens, fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and colorful fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of these nutrients. Additionally, some studies suggest that supplements like lutein and zeaxanthin can be beneficial. But you shouldn’t take any supplements without asking your primary care doctor about it first.

Wear Sunglasses

We get it. You want a nice tan, and you don’t want raccoon eyes. Summer is short enough in Virginia as it is, so any opportunity to bathe in sunlight is tempting. But if you want to avoid macular degeneration later on, you might want to consider a good pair of sunglasses now. Wearing sunglasses that block UV light, especially when outdoors, can help reduce damage to the retina over time.

While there is no surefire way to prevent macular degeneration entirely, don’t give up on the battle against macular degeneration in Falls Church, VA. Eating right, protecting your eyes from UV exposure, and attending regular eye exams can go a long way toward prevention of this devastating condition. Contact us today to learn more.