All eyes on the macula this May
By Karen Makin, Head of Clinical Management at Bupa Optical
Do you know what the macula is? Or what it does?
The macula is located at the centre of the retina, in the back of the eyes, and is responsible for our detailed central vision. The macula allows us to look directly at an object and see it clearly. Without it we wouldn’t be able to see the faces of our loved ones, we would have difficulties reading and writing, and we may not be able to do many of the things we love to do.
During May there is an increased focus on macula disease awareness, and you may have seen articles in the media recently. However, we should be aware of the macula and macula disease throughout every month of the year.
Macula disease is a term used to describe a number of diseases that affect the macula. Two of the most common macula diseases are age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) and diabetic eye disease (such as diabetic retinopathy).
Macula disease impacts millions of Australians and is the leading cause of blindness in this country. And diabetic eye disease is the leading cause of preventable blindness amongst Australians. But it is not all bad news! There are some things you can do now to help maintain the health of your macula, helping you see well into the future.
To reduce the risk of macula disease I recommend:
- Having regular eye tests, every 2 years but more often if:
o there is a family history of macula (or any eye) disease
o you are diabetic
o you are over 65
- Don’t smoke
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Eat well!
Interestingly, there are many foods that are good for the eyes, and for the macula in particular – and not carrots as you may have been thinking! Things like green leafy vegetables, fish, fresh fruit and foods high in antioxidants can all help in keeping your macula healthy.
Macula Disease Foundation Australia has created a ‘Macula Menu’. The Macula Menu features hints and tips, as well as recipes, to help you make good food choices. Recipes included are designed to help you have a healthy macula, particularly for age-related macular degeneration, diabetes and general healthy eating. I have tried a few of them, and they are great! You can download your free Macula Menu here.
As with many conditions, early detection is key to minimise the risks associated with macula disease so I recommend getting your eyes checked if you have any concerns.
Our Bupa Optical optometrists are well-equipped to check your macula and perform regular eye examinations.
To book in an eye test at a Bupa Optical store near you visit here.
