While vision loss among older adults in India is a growing anxiety, a normal age-related condition called macular degeneration, gradually affecting young people.

Studies of epidemiology (over 40 years) in adults have shown a prevalence of 2.7% – 4.3% among Indians.

What is spotted degeneration?

The spotted degeneration, or age -related spotted degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease that affects Macula, the central part of the retina in the eye, responsible for the sharp vision.

It leads to blurred or distorted vision, making it difficult to read daily tasks and recognize faces.

Ratan Jyoti Netralaya, Vitreo -ntinel expert of Gwalior Dr. Priyamwara Bhasin said, “The primary cause of macular degeneration is the loss of macula due to aging, oxidative stress and inflammation.”

The expert said, “The accumulation of waste deposits called the poor blood circulation and the drauson in the retina further contributes to its progress,” said the expert.

Is age the only factor?

Although eye disease is usually associated with aging, it is not the only factor.

Many other contributors can increase the risk and severity of the situation. “Smoking is one of the most important risk factors,” Dr. Bhasin said, “Smokers are four times more likely to develop AMD than smokers.”

“Smoking reduces the supply of oxygen in the retina and increases oxidative stress, causing rapid vision to deteriorate,” he said.

Diet also plays an important role.

Dr. Bhasin said, “High diet in processed foods, trans fats, and antioxidants may accelerate low retinal damage. Nutrient deficiency, especially in vitamin C, E, zinc and omega -3 fatty acids, can contribute to lump degeneration.”

Other factors that can increase the risk of spotted degeneration are from genetics, hypertension, heart disease and excessive sun exposure.

Stress

In addition to age, stress has gradually been leading to macular degeneration in many patients in India. Although its occurrence is rare, stress is indirectly associated with spotted degeneration.

Dr. Bhasin highlighted that oxidative stress could intensify the disease.

Oxidative stress occurs when the body contains too much harmful molecules called free radicals and do not have enough antioxidants to control them. It can damage cells, causing diseases such as aging and diabetes and heart problems.

Asif Khan was detected by the McCular degeneration in the late 30s, which started with long stress. He said, “Each injection costs more than Rs 80,000, and some companies sell it for Rs 1 lakh. Insurance does not cover it. The disease is becoming more common, and in my case, stress was a major factor,” he said.

Never had wearing glasses before, Khan initially experienced the irritation of the eyes continuously, which inspired him to see a doctor. He was diagnosed with that journey. Now, he undergoes anti-VEGF injections, a treatment where injection is administered directly into the eye.

Whereas Bradley e from Ohio State University College of Optometry. According to douberti, there is no direct connection between stress and spotted degeneration, stress can be associated with increased inflammation. Since spotted degeneration is an inflammatory disease, there is a possibility that stress can contribute to the progression of the disease.

Stimulate

While spotted degeneration cannot always be prevented completely, some lifestyle changes can reduce risk and slow down its progression.

Dr. Bhasin said, “Smoking is one of the most effective methods to protect the eyes of the eye. Eating nutrients rich in nutrients that can include leafy greens, omega -3 fatty acids from fish, nuts and colorful fruits and vegetables.”

Other preventive measures include: regular exercise to improve blood circulation, wearing sunglasses with UV protection to prevent retinal damage, and control blood pressure and cholesterol levels to protect blood vessels in the retina.

Signs and symptoms

McCular degeneration often develops gradually, making it challenging to quickly detect. However, as it progresses, individuals can notice:

• Blurred or fuzzy vision, especially in the center of their region.
• Difficulty reading or recognizing faces.
• The straight lines appear waving or deformed.
• A dark or empty space in the center of vision.
• Lower the intensity of glow or color in sight.

Treatment

While there is no cure for spotted degeneration, treatment can help slow down its progress and improve the quality of life.

“Nutritional supplements with high doses of vitamins and minerals, such as Areds2 Formula, are shown to slow down the progression of AMD in some patients. Anti-VEGF injections can also help prevent further vision loss in wet AMD cases by reducing abnormal blood vessel growth.”

Other treatment options include laser therapy and low vision AIDS to help maximize the remaining vision to leak blood vessels.