Researchers Make Headway Against Macular Degeneration 
Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of eye loss in our aging population. It is a condition marked by a progressive deterioration of the retina. The condition can impeded a patient’s ability to see sharply or clearly, especially in their central vision.
At this point, there is no cure for this condition. However, there are several things that patients can do to help prevent the onset of the condition. Perhaps more important, recent research has led to new, promising drug therapies that may cure or prevent macular degeneration.
Exciting New Drug Therapies
Recent research conducted by independent researchers, drug companies, and several prominent institutions has led to breakthroughs in the potential treatment of macular degeneration. The drug levodopa, or L-dopa, currently used primarily in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and a variety of other neurological issues affecting the movement of the body, has shown some promise in preventing macular degeneration.
This potential treatment option comes with its own challenges. L-dopa, while showing progress in preventing the onset of macular degeneration, has not shown much promise in treating the eye condition once it has begun to cause vision problems.
Lowering Your Risk for Macular Degeneration
Like so many other conditions and issues that arise from aging, the best possible way to treat macular degeneration is to take steps to keep from developing it in the first place.
Smoking has been shown to greatly increase the risk of developing this condition. Also, many of the risk factors for heart disease are also risk factors for macular degeneration. So a proper diet, good exercise regimen, and general heart healthy life style may go a long way in preserving a patient’s sight as they age.
If macular degeneration runs in your family, you’ll also want to increase the frequency of your visits to the eye doctor to one per year. Early detection and treatment may help stave off the onset of the condition.
Macular Degeneration Is Not Inevitable
Though some loss of vision seems to be foregone conclusion as one approaches old age, there are many things that people can do to lower their risk of developing the condition. Additionally, new drug treatment therapies that both prevent and treat the issue are showing some promise.
As with most health issues though, the healthier the lifestyle you choose, the less likely you are to suffer from macular degeneration.
[Photo via: BrightFocus]