Are supplements really necessary?

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For the past few years, I have been actively following the advice derived from studies such as the Age Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS). A regular part of examining more mature clients is the discussion around the state of their macula, aided by demonstration with digital photography and over time, serial recording is extremely useful.

Where people have wet AMD in one eye, I have advocated supplements as has been advised elsewhere. In addition, they might be counselled on their personal risk factors and what could influence their future eye health. These patients would typically be reviewed annually. Others with a family history would have their risk factors discussed along with dilated photography. Supplements would not necessarily be suggested but diet would be discussed and recommendations made. This would also apply to patients found to have soft drusen.