Macular Degeneration

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Macular degeneration refers to deterioration of the central area of the retina, known as the macula. It is characterized by a loss of sharp vision, meaning it causes an inability to see things sharply defined. Among people 55 years or older in both the United States and Europe, macular degeneration is the number one cause of impaired vision.

There are two main types of macular degeneration—dry (atrophic) and wet (neovascular). Dry macular degeneration accounts for more than 80 percent of all cases, and is characterized by the buildup of cellular debris beneath the retina.

Wet, or neovascular, degeneration is so named because it is due to abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina that can cause leaks that scar the macula.

The primary symptoms of macular degeneration are blurred vision, dark spots at the center of what is being looked at, and distorted vision. This is especially true when looking at objects up close, or when doing detail work, such as reading, writing, knitting, and sewing. Words on a page, for example, may appear bent or wavy, and in some cases it can be impossible to perform such tasks as those mentioned above. Symptoms of macular degeneration begin in the center of the field of vision. Over time, they can spread to the periphery, as well.

Although macular degeneration is often considered a natural consequence of aging, there is nothing natural about it. Rather, it is most often caused by poor diet and nutritional deficiencies, impaired digestive function, environmental toxins, smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, and regular exposure to ultraviolet light. Heavy metal toxicity should also be considered in the case of macular degeneration. All of these factors result in free radical damage and impaired circulation, both of which pose serious threats to the overall health of the eyes.

There are natural cures for Macular Degeneration that do not involve the use of pharmaceutical drugs. Alternative therapies which are used for the treatment of Macular Degeneration focus on restoring the biochemical balance of the body, and making dietary and lifestyle changes designed to improve one's general health.