prevention of macular degeneration

[Leslie w]

My dad was recently diagnosed with macular degeneration of his left eye that's progressing rapidly. His right eye seems ok now. I recently visited my optomotrist for an annual checkup and told him about it. He said it can be a hereditary condition and for me to take precautionary measures. Always wear good sunglasses when outside and to take multivits w/ antioxidants and lutein supplements. I've been shopping for them and I have found there are so many different strenghts of lutein out there, now I'm confused. I was wondering if anyone else is taking it and what strength. If not I'll have to check back w/ my doctor. Incidentally this is a disease that is going to be a real problem w/ our aging population in the next 40 years and the numbers are increasing. I don't think doctors know why. It robs people of their central vision, making them legally blind and currently there's no cure.

[Don]

Hi Leslie,

I have a friend who was suffering from macular degeneration. While there is no cure right now, there are a number of promising treatments in the works. I don't know where you live, but the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore has been doing clinical trials on techniques that can save or even restore sight. Many practitioners are unaware of state-of-the-art care being developed in research universities. You might want to ask your eye doctor if s/he knows anything about this, or else, check on the Internet yourself for more info. My friend's sight was actually saved. It wasn't pleasant . . . she had surgery and then had to spend three months with her head always facing downwards. Still, for another twenty years or so of sight, it was worth it.