Learn the Leading Risk Factors for AMD
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition caused by damage to the macula — the central part of the retina at the back of your eye. The macula is responsible for sharp, central vision and allows you to see fine details, such as faces or text on a page. When AMD develops, it can make everyday tasks like reading, driving, or recognizing faces increasingly difficult.
Unfortunately, AMD is common. It is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults (and the leading cause among Americans aged 65+). While natural aging and genetics play significant roles in its development, other risk factors can also influence whether or not AMD progresses — and some of these are within your control.
To help you better understand your risk, we’ve compiled some of the most common risk factors for macular degeneration, along with practical steps you can take to protect your vision.
Smoking
Multiple studies have confirmed that people who smoke cigarettes are significantly more likely to develop AMD compared to non-smokers. The reasons are clear:
Reduced oxygen delivery: Smoking restricts the amount of oxygen that reaches the choroid, a protective layer of tissue between the retina and the sclera.
Increased inflammation: It activates harmful immune responses that cause long-term inflammation in the eye.
Nutrient depletion: Smoking depletes lutein, an antioxidant essential for maintaining the macula’s health.
In short, smoking compromises eye health on several fronts. Quitting smoking at any age can reduce these risks and benefit your vision — as well as your overall health.
A Diet High in Saturated Fats
Similar to smoking, certain dietary fats can also decrease the amount of oxygen reaching your eye. An excess of saturated fats and cholesterol can cause a fatty substance known as plaque to build up on your macular vessels and hamper the blood flow to your eyes. This, in turn, can sabotage your macular health and increase your risk of developing AMD.
Obesity
Obesity has also been found by several studies to be a predictor of the development of macular degeneration. Obesity appears to be linked to compromised blood vessels, which struggle to deliver oxygen to your eyes. Additionally, morbid obesity is associated with increased inner eye pressure, which can negatively affect your vision with conditions ranging from AMD to glaucoma.
Drusen Buildup
Drusen are a combination of lipids and proteins that appear as yellow buildup within the eyes, near the macula. They can mean an increased risk of AMD — many people develop drusen naturally with age and never have issues, but a high amount of drusen can damage the macula or indicate eye health issues that lead to AMD. Caucasian people are more likely to develop drusen, but anybody can.
Regular Eye Exams are the Best Way to Manage AMD
If you’re over the age of 50 or have one or more of these risk factors, you are at greater risk of developing AMD. The best way to protect your vision is to detect macular degeneration as early as possible — when treatment options are most effective.
At Buffalo Ophthalmology, our experienced doctors use advanced diagnostic technology to identify AMD in its earliest stages, often before noticeable vision changes occur. From there, we create truly personalized treatment plans to help patients stay ahead of vision loss and preserve their quality of life.
Your vision is too valuable to take chances with. Don’t wait until symptoms appear. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam today and take the first step toward protecting your sight for the future.
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