Vision Loss Strategies

It is likely that we all have experienced some discomfort from light. It may have stemmed from excessive screen time, or leaving a darkened room and walking straight into the bright sunshine.

This light sensitivity is often referred to as photophobia, and for many, it can go away quickly. But for others, photophobia can be a persistent symptom of a diagnosed medical condition such as migraine, conjunctivitis, or dry eye.

The cases vary from mild to severe, and some conditions that cause sensitivity to light are considered medical emergencies, such as a corneal abrasion, encephalitis, meningitis, and a subarachnoid hemorrhage.

If you or a loved one is experiencing severe light sensitivity, contact your doctor immediately to perform a physical examination and a comprehensive eye examination to determine the cause.

Photo description: Photo of people walking across the street in a city with the bright light of sun causing a glare as it shines between the buildings. Below the image is text that reads, “Limit sun glare to help with vision”

Nutrition is essential for overall health, and sometimes when we need a little boost to our diets, we can supplement them with a variety of different vitamins and minerals – especially if we are experiencing a medical condition. Age-related macular degeneration is no different, however, it’s important to find the RIGHT vitamins, since many are marketed for eye health, yet only a few have formulas that are proven effective.

When you have age-related macular degeneration, most doctors recommend that you take an AREDS2 formula vitamin. This formula was the result of the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 which showed that it’s possible to reduce the risk of progression of AMD.

It’s important to take the AREDS2 vitamins if your ophthalmologist recommends them, in order to decrease the risk of vision loss from AMD.

Photo description: The abbreviation for age-related macular degeneration, AMD, is displayed in the foreground, in front of a stethoscope and visual acuity test on blurry background.

Maintaining a well-balanced diet, high in antioxidants is the key to preventing the development of serious eye conditions, and ensuring your eyes work their best.

Here are 6 of the best foods for optimal eye health that can be enjoyed on their own or incorporated into more complex recipes! ⬇️

EGGS 🥚 The yolks specifically contain Vitamin A, lutein, zeaxanthin, and zinc which all support healthy eyes and lower the chances of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

FISH 🐟 Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, certain fish, such as salmon, tuna, and halibut can help prevent dry eyes, and contribute to visual development and the overall health of the retina.

DARK LEAFY GREENS 🥬 Spinach, kale, and collard greens are packed with lutein and zeaxanthin, and help protect against serious eye conditions such as age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

ALMONDS 😋 Almonds contain vitamin E, which guards against unstable molecules that target healthy tissue. Vitamin E can reduce the risks of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

ORANGES 🍊 Citrus fruits contain vitamin C, which contributes to healthy blood vessels in your eyes and can help fight the development of cataracts.

CARROTS 🥕 Loaded with beta-carotene and vitamin A, carrots can help prevent eye infections and the development of other serious eye conditions.

Photo description: Graphic with a blue background with text that reads, “Best Food for Healthy Eyes”. Below the text, there is a graphic of a blue eye with muscles to show strength. Next to the eye, there are six circle graphics of food including, eggs, fish, spinach, almonds, an orange, and a carrot.