Blindness ranks high on the list of almost everyone’s greatest fears. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for people to lose their sight as they age, and one of the major causes of vision loss in the older population is macular degeneration.
Nearly one out of three Americans aged 75 or older is affected by macular degeneration. This loss of vision usually means loss of independence and often the need to move into some sort of assisted living or nursing home facility – another fear high on the list of aging people.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can lower the risk of developing macular degeneration. Contact a doctor today to discuss your options about hormone replacement therapy.
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss, affecting more people than glaucoma and cataracts combined. Macular degeneration results from retinal deterioration and is considered incurable. There are medications available to slow progression, but none to stop it or restore damage. The macula, the retina’s central segment, collects images and sends them to the brain.
As the macula degenerates, it no longer receives correct images. People with advanced macular degeneration are not completely blind, as they retain peripheral vision, but they are unable to drive, read or see items in any detail. Macular degeneration takes two forms – wet and dry – with the latter compromising the majority of cases. Although both types of macular degeneration result in vision loss, the wet form is more severe and vision loss occurs more quickly.
People with macular degeneration often have low hormone levels, which may contribute to the disease. Restoring hormones to levels found prior to menopause may guard against macular degeneration.
Unlike synthetic hormones, which are made from pregnant mare’s urine, bioidentical hormones carry the same molecular weight as hormones naturally produced by the body. Bioidentical hormones are created from plant materials, especially soy and wild yam. While synthetic hormones may heighten the risk for developing breast cancer or experiencing cardiovascular problems, that is not the case with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.
Not only can bioidentical hormone therapy reduce these risks and help prevent macular degeneration, but it may also lessen the risk for Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis.
Not surprisingly, people diagnosed with macular degeneration are more likely to suffer from dementia and/or cardiovascular ailments such as stroke or heart attack. Low hormone levels are a common thread in all of these age-related diseases.
An individualized bioidentical hormone replacement therapy regimen, combined with certain nutritional supplements, can reduce the odds of developing macular degeneration. That goes along with a holistic approach to health, which is part of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.
In addition to the hormones and supplements, the doctor recommends a diet and exercise program custom-tailored to each patient. Obese or seriously overweight patients are more likely to suffer from macular degeneration. Other risk factors for macular degeneration include high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and smoking.
Genetics are also a factor, and patients with family members who have lost vision to macular degeneration are at additional risk. The holistic regimen including bioidentical hormone replacement therapy addresses every aspect of a patient’s health and wellness.
If you would like more information about how bioidentical hormone therapy can help prevent macular degeneration, contact Dr. Edward Jacobson’s office today and arrange a consultation.