Stargardt’s disease is the juvenile firm of adult
macular degeneration seen in the eyes. This condition has a hereditary
component and usually begins in late childhood, gradually leading to legal
blindness. A gradual buildup of lipid or fat deposits in the Retinal Pigment
Epithelium (RPE) cuts off nourishment to the photoreceptor cells in the macular
part of the retina. This causes a gradual degeneration of the photoreceptor cells,
leading to loss of vision. Contrary to the adult macular degeneration, high
doses of vitamin A seem to worsen Stargardt’s disease.
There is currently no known treatment for this
condition in the modern system of medicine. Ayurvedic treatment for Stargardt’s
disease is aimed at reducing deposition of lipids in the RPE, removing the
toxic fats from the eyes, and providing healthy nutrition to the retina.
Regular treatment for about 10-12 months helps in significantly improving and
stabilizing vision. It also helps to adopt a healthy lifestyle, reduce stress,
get adequate amount of sleep, and consume a diet full of fresh fruits and
vegetables. It is also important to reduce exposure to toxins from the air, drinking
water, processed and packaged foods, and cosmetics.
It is also important to monitor affected individuals
on a long term basis even after completion of treatment, to ensure that there
is no deterioration in vision.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an
online Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com
