The macula, located at the center of the retina, plays a vital role in providing sharp, central vision necessary for tasks like reading, driving, and perceiving fine details. However, when a hole forms in the macula, it can lead to central vision becoming distorted, darkened, or even lost over time if left untreated. In the United States, macular holes are relatively rare, with a prevalence of approximately 0.33% among individuals over the age of 55. The condition becomes more common as patients enter their 70s.
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Staying hydrated is an essential part of maintaining health. Drinking healthy fluids throughout the day helps the body detoxify and is critical in maintaining temperature control and proper blood viscosity. Seniors, in particular, generally do not drink enough water.
Why are we told to stay hydrated for our health? At Natural Eye Care, we care about the eyes and the body. Thus, keeping the body’s fluid balance is part of maintaining vision health. While 60% of the human body is composed of water, the eye is 98% water. Dehydration impairs the functioning of all systems in the body. Overhydration is also dangerous. In this article, we discuss the benefits of hydration, the deleterious effects of chronic dehydration, and how much water you need to drink.
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Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness among adults. Poor blood sugar balance can damage nerves, so nerve support is crucial for people with diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition stemming primarily from imbalances in blood sugar levels. When blood sugar is not properly managed, the body’s delicate nerve tissues, including the retina, can be injured.
At Natural Eye Care, we have examined the research on nutrients that help protect the eye, including the retina and blood flow to the eye. Research has identified oxidative stress and inflammation as key contributors to the onset and development of numerous eye conditions.
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We might not connect our eating habits to eye disease, but poor nutrition impairs circulation. Reduced circulation can contribute to eye diseases, including cataracts, glaucoma, retinal vascular occlusions, ischemic optic neuropathy (ION), dry eyes, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Instead of being a “victim” of eye diseases in your senior years, you can take charge of your health today!
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Poor circulation significantly contributes to eye diseases, including macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. Heart disease and diabetes lead to poor circulation. Our eyes and brain require the most oxygen and nutrients, so they need healthy blood circulation. In this article, we will explore the connections between age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and poor circulation. We will also examine the relationship between heart disease and glaucoma. Additionally, we will discuss how diabetes affects circulation and leads to diabetic retinopathy.
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This month, we’re focusing on understanding macular degeneration and the importance of early detection. We will explore natural approaches to manage this eye disease and support healthy vision.
Macular Degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss, primarily affecting central vision, and can lead to blindness if not properly managed. The macula is a yellowish spot at the center of the retina, where vision is sharpest. While genetics can play a role, macular degeneration often appears in those over 50 due to essential nutrients not reaching the eyes, particularly the retina. Factors like a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, reduced nutrient absorption, certain medication side-effects, and health issues such as poor circulation and chronic inflammation can contribute to this condition.
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Neuroinflammation is inflammation of the brain or spinal cord. It’s a defensive response to injury, infection, or illness. Neuroinflammation is beneficial after, for example, a spinal cord injury.1 However, chronic inflammation is a significant contributing factor to disease onset. Researchers are concerned that an inflamed brain and spinal cord can lead to disease in the brain and eyes. The optic nerve and retina, for example, are neural tissue. In this article, we look at the links between neuroinflammation and two eye conditions: glaucoma and thinning of the cornea. We also examine research on neurodegeneration, deteriorating brain health, and a compromised blood-brain barrier. And, we list some nutrients that help reduce neuroinflammation.
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Oxidative stress significantly affects health and vision. It is a process in which free radicals are produced, leading to potential harm as these unstable molecules steal electrons from healthy cells. This oxidative damage can manifest visibly as aging skin and ocular changes, such as cataract formation. However, oxidation is not the only factor contributing to accelerated aging and eye conditions; poor circulation and insufficient essential nutrients also play important roles.
Glaucoma is a severe eye disease linked to high intraocular pressure. How can you regulate eye pressure? If you have a glaucoma diagnosis, the eye doctor often prescribes eye drops to lower intraocular pressure (IOP). Is there anything additional that you can do to help keep your IOP lower?
Addressing glaucoma and the risk of glaucoma primarily involves maintaining normal intraocular pressure and nourishing the optic nerves. (If you have low-tension glaucoma, circulation to the eye is crucial.) In our previous article, we explored essential nutrients that support optic nerve health.
January is Glaucoma Awareness Month—a time to shed light on an eye disease that is a leading cause of irreversible blindness in the US. Seniors are especially at risk. Glaucoma, often dubbed “the silent thief,” primarily impacts peripheral vision. Severe and untreated cases can lead to blindness. This stealthy eye disease can progress unnoticed until it is quite advanced, making early detection vital. While it predominantly affects older adults, glaucoma can occur at any age, underscoring the importance of regular, comprehensive eye exams. Find out about symptoms, screening, causes, and nutrients that fight glaucoma.
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Natural Eye Care, Inc.
3 Paradies Lane
New Paltz, New York 12561
Phone: 845.475.4158
NaturalEyeCare™ started in 1999 to help the public and professionals learn about complementary care in eye disease treatment.
The information and recommendations we offer are based on over 30 years of peer review research and personal clinical experience which guides us in providing a valuable resource to our readers, customers and patients regarding maintaining healthy vision naturally.
We believe that vision health is intimately connected to overall mental, physical and spiritual health. Therefore we encourage people to look at their overall lifestyle and diet as part of keeping healthy vision and reducing the risk of eye disease onset. This includes diet, regular exercise, and management of daily stress. If one has health issues such as high blood pressure, a thyroid imbalance, any autoimmune disease and/or are on medication(s), these possible contributions to eye disease should considered when working with your health care professional.
Please do not hesitate to call us at 845.475.4158 with any questions and concerns.
