Do you smoke? Are you suffering from hypertension? Are you always exposed to sunlight? If you answered “yes” to the above questions and are over 50 years old, you’re at risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a disease that affects 30 million people worldwide.

The ...Do you smoke? Are you suffering from hypertension? Are you always exposed to sunlight? If you answered “yes” to the above questions and are over 50 years old, you’re at risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a disease that affects 30 million people worldwide.

The AMD Alliance International, a non-profit alliance of international vision and seniors organization, said the disease is the leading cause of blindness in people over 50. Its cause remains a mystery but you’re likely to get it if you smoke, have high blood pressure or coronary artery disease, are farsighted, and if your diet is low in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

The disease affects the macula of the eye. The macula is a light-sensitive tissue at the center of the retina. It provides central vision and allows us to see fine details. When the macula is damaged, there is loss of central vision, leaving only peripheral or side vision intact.

Of the two types of AMD, the most disabling is the wet form. Although it affects only 10 percent of patients, it causes severe vision loss. This is due to the growth of abnormal, leaky blood vessels that block vision.

While there is no way to restore vision, further vision loss can be prevented with the help of a drug that is injected into a person’s bloodstream. The drug is activated by photodynamic (PDT) or laser therapy. This produces a clot that closes abnormal blood vessels without damaging other parts of the eye. The drug reduces the risk of vision loss and has very little side effects.

For those who are bothered by dark circles, eye bags, and puffy eyes, they can revitalize their eyes with Eyevive. This product will open your eyes to a youthful, beautiful, and wrinkle-free you. Go to http://tinyurl.com/8jkw6ma for details.

Author's Bio: 

Janet Martin is an avid health and fitness enthusiast and published author. Many of her insightful articles can be found at the premiere online news magazine http://www.thearticleinsiders.com.