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The following article was published in Your Health Magazine. Our mission is to empower people to live healthier.
Michael J. Dodd, MD
Preventative Medicine and the Eyes
Maryland Eye Associates
. http://marylandeyeassociates.com

Preventative Medicine and the Eyes

Fortunately the human eye requires very little maintenance. For people who stay healthy the eyes will serve them well for many years. With age the eyes can, of course, deteriorate. The most common condition of aging is the formation of cataracts. Patients often ask me if there is anything they can do to prevent cataracts. There are no drops or medicines that can prevent cataracts. However, staying healthy will delay the formation of cataracts. Staying healthy means cessation of smoking, avoiding obesity, maintaining a proper diet, and initiating a regular exercise program.

Certain medical conditions can accelerate formation of cataracts. Diabetes is the main culprit here. Steroid medications in large doses or for protracted time periods can acceleratethe formation of cataracts. Most patients with cataracts end up having surgery in their mid 60's or early 70's. However, I have seen patients in their 90's who may have cataracts but they are not causing enough visualloss to justify surgical removal. These patients generally maintain good health and have been able to avoid heavy medication through most of their lives.

Similar statements can be made about age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). Studies have shown that smoking cigarettes increases significantly the risk of ARMD. In patients who have been diagnosed with ARMD, certain high dose vitamins may help some patients. Greens such as kale and spinach may help those with ARMD and may help prevent it or delay it's progression. So, like your mother said, eating your greens will help you stay healthy and if you stay healthy, your retinas will too.

Another common eye problem is dry eyes. This is being diagnosed more frequently today and has multiple causes. Medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can cause dry eyes. Long-term soft contact lens wear is a risk factor for dry eyes. Today part of the treatment is lubricating drops, but many patientsget a positive responseto omega 3 fatty acids. These are important fatty acids (yes some fatty acids are good for you) and cannot be manufactured by the human liver. They must be taken in via diet or supplemental pills. Omega 3's are high in certain grains like flax seed and buckwheat. They are also high in fish, particularly salmon. Your mother was right again; eat lots of grains and fish to stay healthy.

The eyes are the windows of the souls according to the poet. They are also the organ system through which 80% of our knowledge about the world is learned. We certainly want to take good care of them. Do what is right for your general health and your eyes will last you a long time and serve you well. Again, exercise, don't smoke, eat a proper diet and maintain a healthy weight. You will live longer and healthier and see well as you grow older.

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