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:
  1. 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.
  2. 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

Conclusion

Ayurveda provides a holistic approach to managing ARMD by balancing the doshas, detoxifying the system, and nourishing the eye tissues. Early intervention with Ayurvedic treatments, herbal supplements, and lifestyle modifications can help slow down the progression of macular degeneration and maintain better eye health.

At SHREE JEE NETRA AROGYAM , we are treating ARMD with great success with Ayurveda.

At SHREE JEE NETRA AROGYAM, we offer specialized ARMD Ayurvedic Treatment that targets the underlying vascular issues while promoting retinal health and vision recovery without any Laser or Injections.

Our treatment approach involves the use of Ayurvedic herbs, natural remedies, and personalized care plans designed to reduce macular oedema and haemorrhages, enhance blood flow to the retina, and repair damaged retinal tissues. 

SHREE JEE NETRA AROGYAM’s ARMD Ayurvedic Treatment emphasizes the rejuvenation of retinal cells and improvement of visual acuity. 

Our patients have experienced remarkable improvements in their vision and overall eye health through our comprehensive Ayurvedic approach.

Reach out to us to discover how our ARMD Ayurvedic Treatment can help you manage your condition and protect your vision from further damage.

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