Dry Macular Degeneration Symptoms

by Jack

Leslie

I have several questions about Macular Degeneration.

I was diagnosed with early stage Dry Macular Degeneration in May 2007 (in my right eye).

I have experienced distortion periodically in that eye since then. The distortion may last for several weeks and then clear up and remain distortion free for months.

My questions...

What causes the distortion? Also, why does the distortion come and go? Is that normal?

I am unable to determine any one specific factor causing the distortion. However, I do know stress certainly appears to contribute to
the problem.

Each episode occurs during a highly stressful period. Other than reducing stress (if that's a factor), is there anything I can do personally to prevent such episodes of distortion? I am currently experiencing distortion and have been for about two months now. This is the longest period of time I've had to deal with it, and it can really be unnerving.

Thanks in advance for your help and insight on this issue.

Answer by Michael Edson, MS, L.Ac.

The distortion in Dry Macular Degeneration is typically the result of Drusen.

Drusen is the collection of waste that gets deposited on the retina that is normally completely reabsorbed in a healthy eye.

This waste is the natural byproduct of cellular activity in the retina. It is the collection of waste on the retina that causes vision loss overtime in Dry Macular Degeneration.

It is possible to reduce eye distortion and support the body's natural process of eliminating waste in the retina through diet, exercise and specific nutrient supplementation.

Taurine is an essential nutrient to help eliminate waste. We recommend 750mg -1,000 mg per day.

Other critical nutrients to support retinal health and vision include lutein, zeaxanthin, mesozeaxanthin, omega-3 fatty acids, grapeseed extract, bilberry, gingko biloba, lycopene, betacarotene, Vitamsin C & E, zinc, copper and selenium.

Many of these nutrients also can help significantly reduce the likelihood of
dry macular degeneration turning to wet macular degeneration.

Michael Edson, MS, L.Ac.

Natural Eye Care