Using Acupuncture for Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a degenerative condition of the eyes, and a leading cause of vision loss among the elderly. Age-related macular degeneration is a variation of the condition, and this essay will explore the causes and risk factors, diagnosis and treatment options, and the impact on quality of life. Understanding these aspects of the condition is essential in order to choose the proper treatment options for those affected.

Macular degeneration is a debilitating eye condition that leads to vision loss, from a TCM (traditional Chinese Medical) approach the causes are lack of blood flow to the retinal cells due to clogged capillaries in the vicinity of the eyes.  Recent western medical research into this condition has identified several potential causes and risk factors. In a study conducted by LA Hecker et al. in 2010, they found that age was a particularly important risk factor, with prevalence of the condition increasing with age. Additionally, they noted that a family history of the condition was also associated with an increased risk of developing macular degeneration. Other risk factors that were identified included smoking, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and obesity. Furthermore, they found that certain genetic factors, such as the presence of the CFH gene, were also associated with an increased risk of developing the condition. The authors concluded that further investigations are needed to understand the underlying causes of macular degeneration and to develop effective strategies for its prevention and treatment (Hecker et al., 2010).

How Acupuncture Can Help

Macular Degeneration is a degenerative eye condition that affects the macula, a small area at the back of the eye that is responsible for central vision. It is a common cause of vision loss in people over the age of 50 and can have a significant impact on quality of life. In a study by Wong et al. (2008), researchers examined the diagnosis and treatment options available for Macular Degeneration. They found that diagnosis involves a thorough examination of the eye, including visual acuity testing, fundus photography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT). After diagnosis, treatment options may include lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, increased dietary intake of antioxidants, and avoiding exposure to blue light. In addition, we recommend using acupuncture and trans-ocular stimulation to improve blood flow to the eyes and stimulate the retinal cells. The lifestyle changes, combined with the acupuncture treatments improve the body’s ability to nourish the retinal cells and the stimulation of the acupuncture needles  stem cell initiates stem cell production in the area. It is important for patients to be aware of the diagnosis and treatment options for Macular Degeneration in order to get the most effective care possible. With the right treatment plan, people with Macular Degeneration patients can maintain a high quality of life and minimize the impact of the condition on their vision.

Self-Reinforcing Beliefs Contribute to AMD

Recent research conducted by J Lane, EMF Rohan, F Sabeti, RW Essex, T Maddess and others (2018) has shed light on the impact of macular degeneration on patient’s quality of life. The study found that those with macular degeneration experienced a decrease in physical activity, leading to a decline in overall quality of life. The participants reported decreased physical activities such as walking, running, cycling, or playing sports due to decreased vision, resulting in a decrease in quality of life. Additionally, those with macular degeneration reported increased fatigue and decreased stamina, which also contributed to a decrease in quality of life. The study concluded that macular degeneration had a negative impact on quality of life, as it begins to limit the ability to participate in physical activities. It is therefore important to be aware of this tendency and use specific, AMD-related activities like Qi Gong to support those affected by it. Lifestyle changes are part of the HECCR approach to resolving AMD.

Macular degeneration, or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a chronic condition that affects the central portion of the retina, or the macula, of the eye. It is a leading cause of vision loss in Americans age 65 and older, and it can cause a loss of central vision, making it difficult to read and recognize faces. While AMD is somewhat common among older adults, there are ways to mitigate its effects and many treatments available for the diagnosis of AMD. Holistic approaches for the treatment of AMD include proper diet and nutrition, exercising regularly, wearing sunglasses and protective eyewear, acupuncture and proper supplementation.

Holistic strategies for treating AMD can help slow the progression of vision loss and help maintain proper vision for longer. While not a complete cure, these strategies can improve vision and prevent the advancement of AMD, improve overall quality of life, reduce stress and feelings of helplessness associated with vision loss. Additionally, early detection is key to minimizing vision loss due to AMD, so regular eye exams are necessary. Holistic strategies can help to improve vision, protect the eyes, and help keep AMD at bay.

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Disclaimer

This website is for informational purposes only. By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing any type of disease or medical condition. Before beginning any type of natural, integrative, or conventional treatment regimen, it is advisable to see the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.

Work Cited

T Wong., U Chakravarthy.”The natural history and prognosis of neovascular age-related macular degeneration: a systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis.”https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0161642007002333

J Lane., F Sabeti., RW Essex., T Maddess.”Impacts of impaired face perception on social interactions and quality of life in age-related macular degeneration: A qualitative study and new community ….”https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0209218

“Genetic control of the alternative pathway of complement in humans and age-related macular degeneration.”https://academic.oup.com/hmg/article-abstract/19/1/209/599606