Macular Degeneration¹

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD or AMD) is a disorder that affects the macula (the central part of the retina of the eye) causing decreased visual acuity and possible loss of central vision.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The macula is the part of the retina that allows the eye to see fine details at the center of the field of vision. Degeneration results from a partial breakdown of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE).

The RPE is the insulating layer between the retina and the choroid (the layer of blood vessels behind the retina). The RPE acts as a selective filter to determine what nutrients reach the retina from the choroid. Many components of blood are harmful to the retina and are kept away from the retina by normal RPE.

Breakdown of the RPE interferes with the metabolism of the retina, causing thinning of the retina (the "dry" phase of macular degeneration). These harmful elements may also promote new blood vessel formation and fluid leakage (the "wet" phase of macular degeneration).

This disorder results in the loss of central vision only -- peripheral fields are always maintained. One loses the ability to read, drive, watch TV and recognize faces.

The disease becomes increasingly common amongst people in each succeeding decade over 50. By age 75, almost 15% of people have this condition. Other risk factors are family history, light colored eyes, cigarette smoking, and being Caucasian.

Symptoms

Blurred, distorted, dim, or absent central vision

1. Source: Medline: NIH Medical Encyclopedia

Prevention & Alternative Treatment

Conventional medicine says that there is no specific treatment for "dry" macular degeneration, although zinc supplementation may slow the progression of the disease. It recommmends a variety of surgical and laser treatments for the "wet variety".

Dr. Geiger has authored a book, Eye Care Naturally, in which he makes recommendations for alternatives to help those with macular degeneration and those at risk for it.

In it he advises which foods to eat, which to avoid and which nutritional supplements, ie omega-3 fish oil, to take for a number of eye conditions. He also speaks of some necessary lifestyle changes to be made. His research has uncovered how to prevent, prolong the onset, slow the progression of and in some cases, reverse these conditions. Some of these conditions have no medical cure and lead to blindness. For others, surgery is the only option. Dr. Geiger says otherwise. It is his sincere hope that this information will help prevent blindness and eye discomfort in the world and provide clearer eyesight longer; that is his purpose and mission.

Dr. Geiger is available for eye examinations with nutritional consultation. He also will consult with you via email (free) at pure4us@aol.com or telephone.

Please go to our store to order the book Eye Care Naturally, which describes natural prevention and treatment for each eye condition.