What is Macular Degeneration?
The condition known as macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in the United States in people over the age of 50. People who have macular degeneration have a blind spot in the center of their vision. In the early stages they may still see shapes but have difficulty reading the newspaper or small print in a magazine. They may also find they have difficulty in seeing long distances and therefore stop driving.

In macular degeneration, the small blood vessels supplying the back part of the eye known as the macula begin to leak, swell and cause a scarring that leads to blurring of  vision. Typically, treatment is geared towards sealing off the leaking blood vessels, usually with the use of lasers. The problem with such treatment, however, is that a laser also destroys some of the healthy retinal cells as well. That's why prevention of macular degeneration is so important.

Help from Antioxidants
There is some evidence now indicating that antioxidants can help protect against macular degeneration. Free radicals seem to contribute to the condition, just as with the formation of cataracts. Generally speaking, people who have high levels of antioxidants, vitamin E, C, betacarotene, zinc and selenium are at much lower risk of developing this condition. Eating a diet rich in phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables can help you to maintain healthy eyes. People with age-related macular degeneration generally consume far fewer fresh fruits and vegetables than those without it. Phytonutrients such as lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin are particularly helpful in retarding macular degeneration.  (In fact, consuming 30 mg of lutein will increase your blood level of the substance by tenfold.)

Consuming generous amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables, stopping smoking and avoiding excessive exposure to sunlight are all important factors in reducing your risk of macular degeneration. (Excerpted from The Complete Idiot's Guide to Living Longer and Healthier by Allan Magaziner, D.O.).

We have had great success with using an intravenous formula to treat macular degeneration. It contains many antioxidants along with minerals and an amino acid known as taurine. Taurine is a very powerful antioxidant, which is of specific benefit to the eye. Taurine may also be beneficial for the heart. We have treated several patients who have suffered decreased loss of vision due to macular degeneration, including one who was unable to read a book and was having difficulty driving. After a series of treatments, he is now able to drive his car again and also can read books and newspapers with ease. 

If you have vision loss that is due to macular degeneration, please consult Dr. Magaziner or Dr. Greenberg in order to find out if the intravenous treatment would be beneficial for you.