Retinal degeneration, also called macular degeneration, is a disease that causes a reduction in the ability of central vision, with darkening and loss of sharpness, preserving peripheral vision.
This disease is related to aging and affects, mainly, people over 50 years of age, however, it is also possible that it arises in young people. In addition to age, other risk factors include family history, smoking, lack of dietary vitamins, intense exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet radiation, high blood pressure and arteriosclerosis of vessels.
Although not curable, treatment can improve vision and prevent worsening of the disease, and involves some ophthalmologist-oriented options, such as laser photocoagulation, medications such as corticosteroids, and intraocular injections that decrease inflammation, and it is recommended to follow a diet rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C and E, and omega-3, present in foods or supplements.
Main symptoms
Retinal degeneration arises when the tissue at the center of the retina, called the macula, deteriorates. Thus, the symptoms it causes include:
- Gradual loss of ability to see objects clearly;
- Haze or distorted vision in the center of vision;
- The appearance of a dark or empty area in the center of the vision.
Although macular degeneration can severely compromise vision, it usually does not lead to total blindness, since it compromises only the central region, preserving peripheral vision.
The diagnosis of this disease is made by evaluations and tests performed by the ophthalmologist, who will observe the macula and detect the form and degree of degeneration of each person, to schedule the best treatment.
How is the treatment done?
Macular degeneration does not have a cure, however, monitoring and monitoring by the ophthalmologist in scheduled appointments should be started as soon as possible to avoid worsening of the disease.
In some cases, treatment including use of thermal laser, corticosteroids, retinal photocoagulation, and intraocular application of drugs such as Ranibizumab or Aflibercept, for example, which decrease blood vessel proliferation and inflammation, may be indicated.
Natural Treatment
Natural treatment does not replace treatment with ophthalmologist-guided remedies, however it is important to help prevent and worsen macular degeneration.
A diet rich in omega-3, present in fish and mollusks, in addition to antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, zinc and copper, present in fruits, vegetables and vegetables, are recommended as they are important elements for the health of the retina .
If food is not sufficient to meet daily needs, it is possible to consume them through supplements sold in natural products stores and manipulation pharmacies, at doses directed by the ophthalmologist.
In addition, to assist in the prevention and treatment of the disease, it is advised to follow other healthy habits such as no smoking, avoiding alcoholic beverages and protect yourself from intense sunlight and ultraviolet radiation with appropriate sunglasses.
Types of retinal degeneration
Depending on the stage and severity of macular degeneration, it can occur in different ways:
1. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
It is the early stage of the disease and may not cause symptoms. At this stage, the ophthalmologist can observe the existence of drusen, which are a kind of waste that accumulates beneath the tissue of the retina.
Although the accumulation of drusen does not necessarily cause loss of vision, they can interfere with the health of the macula and progress to a more advanced stage if it is not discovered and treated quickly.
2. Dry degeneration
It is the main form of presentation of the disease and happens when the cells of the retina die, which causes gradual loss of vision. If left untreated, this degeneration can worsen and develop in the future a more aggressive form.
3. Wet degeneration
This is the most serious stage of the disease, in which there may be fluid and blood leakage from the blood vessels under the retina, which leads to scarring and loss of vision.
