Living With Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Living With Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, doesn't happen suddenly. At the back of your eye is an area called the macula, which contains cells that are sensitive to light. They're the cells that allow you to see what's ahead of you.

Woman Living With Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

With AMD, these cells begin to deteriorate and eventually die. At Eye Doctors of Arizona, when our optometrists diagnose a patient with AMD, their first advice is to stop worrying about losing vision and start doing something to prevent it. It's rare for people to go completely blind with AMD, and certain lifestyle changes can make a big difference in how much of your vision you keep in the coming years.

Take an AREDS Supplement

A clinical trial has proven that people with moderate AMD have about 25 percent less chance of vision loss when they took a supplement containing zinc plus certain antioxidants. Consult with our optometrist to see if this supplement would help you.

Quit Smoking

Stopping the habit may be the single most important act you can take towards preventing vision loss. Studies show that smokers have up to three times the risk of developing or worsening age-related macular degeneration. 

See All Your Doctors Regularly

Coming in for an annual comprehensive eye exam is key to helping monitor your eye health, but that's not the only medical knowledge you need. Go to your primary care physician annually to have your blood pressure and cholesterol checked. Maintaining these good numbers can be helpful in slowing the progression of AMD.

Eat the Rainbow

Brightly colored vegetables and fruits contain various antioxidants that are very good for supporting the health of your retinas. Choose your produce with your eyes as well as for taste. Start with dark, leafy greens such as kale or spinach, and then add at least five servings of other fruits and vegetables, all in different colors. Add fish high in Omega-3 fatty acids such as tuna or salmon to add even more support for your eye health.

Looking for a Phoenix Optometrist?

Living with age-related macular degeneration can be a challenge, but it's easier with a great professional support team like we have in our office. If you're overdue for a comprehensive eye exam, call our office to schedule an appointment. You can reach us in the North Phoenix area or the Biltmore area at 602-257-8280.

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Downtown Phoenix

Monday - Friday:

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday, Sunday:

Closed

North Phoenix

Monday - Friday:

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday, Sunday:

Closed

Shea Park

Monday - Friday:

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday, Sunday:

Closed

Cave Creek

Monday - Friday:

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday, Sunday:

Closed



Downtown Phoenix

515 W. Buckeye Rd #104
Phoenix, AZ 85003

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North Phoenix

3321 East Bell Road B-12
Phoenix, AZ 85032

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Shea Park

10255 N. 32nd Street Suite B
Phoenix, AZ 85028

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Newman Eye Center - Cave Creek

20819 N Cave Creek Rd STE 102
Phoenix, AZ 85024

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Testimonials

Reviews From Our Satisfied Patients

I recommend Eye Doctors of Arizona. The entire staff is always happy, pleasant, and helpful. Dr. Heller is wonderful... always thorough, and accurate. An excellent doctor. I was fortunate to meet his second son, Ben, who will be joining the practice soon. Now with their two offices, it is even more convenient to book appointments.

Erin D. -Customer Since 2015 Phoenix, AZ