|
Reducing Risk of Macular Degeneration
While there are no known causes of macular degeneration, many studies have been performed which illustrate factors that may put you at risk for the disease. There are risk factors you can't control, such as age and genetics, and risk factors that you can control, such as smoking and poor nutrition.
Risk Factors You Can't Control
- Age
- Race (Caucasians are at greater risk)
- Genetics
- Light eye color
Risk Factors You Can Control
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Poor nutrition
- Unprotected exposure to sunlight
- Excessive sugar and trans fats intake
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
An unhealthy lifestyle, which may include smoking, poor nutrition or limited exercise, could contribute to your risk of developing macular degeneration. As a result, many risk factors are within your control to reduce your chance of getting the disease and to promote better health.
What You Can Do to Reduce Risk
You can lessen the risk of developing macular degeneration by reducing risk factors within your control, such as smoking and high blood pressure. You are never too young to reduce your risk for disease, so, no matter what your age, you can incorporate the following guidelines into your life.
- Quit smoking
- Control high blood pressure
- Control cholesterol level
- Control cardiovascular disease
- Improve nutrition
- Wear 100% UV protective sunglasses
- Curb sugar intake
- Maintain ideal body weight
- Exercise regularly
By following these guidelines, you not only may reduce your risk of developing macular degeneration, but you may also be able to stabilize or slow the effects of vision loss if you have already been diagnosed with the disease.