Learn preventive measures for macular degeneration from your eye surgeon near Laguna Hills

Macular degeneration is a potentially serious eye condition that is associated with age. Dr. George Salib, a respected Orange County eye surgeon, discusses prevention as well as treatment for macular degeneration with patients who reside near his Laguna Hills office.

Research indicates that most men and women who develop macular degeneration experience the “dry” type, associated with atrophy of the eyes’ photoreceptors. Wet macular degeneration, which is the type that most frequently causes severe vision loss, is less common, occurring in only about 10 percent of patients.

Can macular degeneration be prevented?

Due to the hereditary factor of macular degeneration, there is no guarantee that an at-risk individual can eliminate risk altogether. What multiple studies have shown us, however, is that a skilled ophthalmologist can assist patients in preserving their vision as long as possible. If you live near Lake Forest, Aliso Viejo or anywhere in the OC, a visit to Dr. Salib can help you identify your risk for this common eye disease. Additionally, you can learn the healthy lifestyle habits that will help you master your eye health.

Decreasing your risk

While scientists have yet to pinpoint an exact cause of macular degeneration, certain risk factors have been identified. These include age, eye color, and genetics, three factors that are out of your control to manage. However, several other factors can either deplete the eyes of nutrients or protect eye health. These are fully within your control. For patients who have existing risk that they cannot change, lifestyle and diet are crucial to the preservation of vision in the face of age-related macular degeneration.

Smoking has a negative impact on respiratory health, oral health, and eye health. Over time, the persistent exposure to smoke and chemicals in tobacco products causes blood vessels to thin out. At the same time, the blood moving through the veins thickens, inhibiting adequate circulation.
A high-fat diet can affect circulation as well. This is due to the buildup of plaque on the walls of blood vessels throughout the body, including the eyes.

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While certain habits increase the risk of macular degeneration, others can promote healthy circulation, a vital component to well-functioning macula.

Everyone’s eyes can benefit from adequate protection from UV exposure. Individuals with lighter eyes, in particular, are encouraged to wear appropriate sunglasses during outdoor activities.
Antioxidants from foods like blueberries or supplements nourish the eyes.
Fruits and vegetables containing the carotenoid pigment lutein are recognized for their ability to protect eyes from sun damage. An accumulation of lutein in the macula is ideal. Lutein can be found in almost every colorful fruit and vegetable, such as red grapes or squash.
Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to produce a 50 percent decreased risk of wet macular degeneration! These essential fatty acids can be obtained from tuna, salmon, and flaxseeds as well as through supplements.

Your Orange County eye surgeon Dr. George Salib can see you through the life stages of eye health. Contact our office at (949) 441-5444 .