February is National AMD/Low Vision Awareness Month. This special awareness campaign revolves around raising awareness about AMD and low vision, simply because these disorders have a huge impact on people of all ages, and yet not many people are aware what AMD or low vision is, their symptom, risk factors, and how to manage it if they are living with any of these disorders.
In the United States, the most common causes of low vision are AMD or Age-Related Macular Degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. AMD is the leading cause of vision loss affecting more than 15 million adults aged 50 and up.
Low vision is a general term used to indicate partial sight or sight that cannot be fully corrected with medications, eye glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. Specialized equipment, such as magnification devices and computer access software are used to help sufferers maximize their remaining vision. In other cases, sufferers with extremely low vision are trained to do things using alternative ways, such using their sense of hearing or sense of touch with the help of modern technology,
AMD, on the other hand, is a disease that destroys macula, the sharp central vision controlled by a spot at the back of the eye. This can cause the central part of your vision to become wavy or blurry. Visual distortion is also a known symptom, for instance, doorways look crooked or objects look smaller. In some cases, there is a blind spot in the center of their vision. Since this part of the eye is necessary when performing daily tasks, such as identifying faces, watching television, reading, writing and driving, AMD can greatly affect a person’s life.
AMD/Low Vision Awareness Month gears towards encouraging people to learn more about AMD or Low Vision. It also aims to disseminate information on how to care for your eyes, raise awareness about the symptoms, risk factors and treatment, raise funds needed for its research and related programs, and lastly, to push more people to become influencers and spread the word quickly all over the nation.
If you are living with AMD or low vision, this month of February is all about sharing your life with other people and inspiring others. By getting yourself involved with this special awareness campaign, you can motivate fellow sufferers that living a happy life despite your disability is possible.
AMD/low vision Awareness Month’s purpose is also to encourage people to be tested for AMD or low vision as it increases the chances of early detection. Have a complete eye exam from a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist. Each year, it is also best to repeat the exam. If you are experiencing drastic vision impairment, take a low vision examination to get proper diagnosis. Take note that the low vision examination will take much longer than a regular eye exam.
With the help of the Internet and social media, you can take part and get involved in AMD/Low Vision Awareness Month a lot easier than ever before. Check out the scheduled events nearest you, mark your calendar and make your family and friends know about it too. Share useful and factual research, articles, stories and videos about AMD/Low Vision and cite your stand about this disorder.
AMD/Low Vision can turn a person’s life upside-down. It can be frightening and depressing at first, but with a sturdy support system, such as support from family and friends and being aware of what you can still do to live a normal and happy life despite your disability. Over time, you can learn to accept it and live with it. Your involvement in any way, including monetary contributions in AMD/low vision fund-raising projects, or by simply sharing encouraging words on social media could touch someone’s life.
You never become blind with AMD. Early detection and understanding your diagnosis are the initial steps in the process. Making the most of your vision will be the next. Losing sight is a discouraging fact but knows that today’s modern technology makes multiple devices available for you to improve your eyesight.
Prevention is better than cure, as they say. This month also raises awareness as to how you can reduce your risk of having AMD or low vision through simple preventive measures:
• Maintain good lighting in your home and office.
• Avoid writing or reading if you are looking at low contrast screens or looking at the too small font.
• See your optometrist or ophthalmologist at least once a year or if you notice your eyesight becoming blurry or wavy for early detection of AMD.
• Take supplements such as fish oil and a multivitamin. However, ask your doctor for recommendations.
• Wear proper eyewear with UV protection when going outdoors and with anti-radiation to block blue light that may damage the eyes.
• Quit smoking.
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