Age-related macular degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It is one of the leading causes of vision loss in people over 50.
Types of AMD:
Dry AMD (Nonexudative) – This is more common (90% of cases) and occurs due to the gradual thinning of the macula and accumulation of drusen (yellow deposits). Vision loss is usually slow.
Wet AMD (Exudative) – Less common but more severe, caused by abnormal blood vessel growth under the retina, leading to leakage and scarring. Vision loss can be rapid.
In Ayurveda, ARMD (Age-Related Macular Degeneration) can be associated with Drishti Rogas (eye disorders), primarily Pitta and Vata imbalance affecting the Alochaka Pitta, which governs vision. Over time, due to aging and poor lifestyle, the degenerative changes in the retina lead to vision loss.
Ayurvedic Perspective on ARMD:
Dosha Involvement:
Vata Dosha – Dryness and degeneration of eye tissues
Pitta Dosha – Heat and oxidative damage to the macula
Kapha Dosha (to some extent) – Drusen (yellow deposits) formation due to excessive accumulation
Srotas (Channels) Affected:
Rasavaha Srotas (Nutrient Channels) – Poor nourishment of eye tissues
Raktavaha Srotas (Blood Circulation Channels) – Improper blood supply leading to retinal damage
Causes (Nidana) According to Ayurveda:
Aging (Jara)
Excessive exposure to screen time, sunlight, and artificial light
Poor diet lacking essential nutrients (Rasa Dhatu Kshaya)
High mental stress, lack of sleep (Vata aggravation)
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption (Pitta imbalance)
Excessive intake of spicy, fried, and processed foods
Symptoms:
Blurred or distorted central vision
Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
Dark or empty spots in vision
Decreased color perception
Need for brighter light when reading
Risk Factors:
Aging (most common in people over 50)
Family history of AMD
Smoking
Obesity
High blood pressure
Poor diet (low in antioxidants and omega-3s)
Excessive sun exposure
Diagnosis:
Dilated eye exam to check for drusen and retinal changes
Amsler grid test to detect visual distortions
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) for detailed retinal imaging
Fluorescein angiography for detecting leaking blood vessels in wet AMD
Prevention Tips:
Eat a nutrient-rich diet (leafy greens, fish, and nuts)
Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight
Manage blood pressure and cholesterol
Wear sunglasses with UV protection
Avoid smoking
Dietary & Lifestyle Recommendations
Include:
Green leafy vegetables (Palak, Methi)
Ghee (clarified butter) for nourishment
Almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds (rich in Omega-3)
Carrots, beetroots, and berries (high in antioxidants)
Cow’s milk for rejuvenation
Fresh Amla juice for vision support
Avoid:
Spicy, fried, and overly salty foods
Excessive screen time and artificial lights
Smoking and alcohol
Mental stress and lack of sleep
Eye Exercises & Yoga
Trataka (Candle Gazing): Strengthens eye muscles and improves focus
Palming: Relaxes and rejuvenates the eyes
Shambhavi Mudra: Enhances vision and reduces eye strain
Bhramari Pranayama: Reduces oxidative stress and calms the nervous system
