The eyes help one perceive different stimuli. Therefore, promptly diagnosing eye-related conditions is essential to ensure eye health. Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye condition involving damage to the macula or a part of the retina situated at the back of the eye. Individuals aged 50 and above are particularly susceptible to this condition. This article discusses a few early warning signs of AMD that one shouldn’t ignore. Early warning signs of age-related macular degeneration In general, age-related macular degeneration is classified as dry and wet. Dry AMD involves gradual thinning of the retina caused by age and is characterized by symptoms like blurred vision and progressive vision loss. Wet AMD, considered a more serious condition than dry AMD, results from irregular growth of blood vessels in the retina, causing accumulation of fluid in the back of the eye. Dry AMD may gradually progress to wet AMD with time, particularly if left untreated. Some early warning signs of AMD are as follows: 1. Blurred vision Since AMD involves blood or fluid leakage from blood vessels into the macula, individuals with this disease may experience blurry vision. 2. Wavy appearance of straight lines Age-related macular degeneration significantly affects one’s central vision, which is indispensable in facilitating the recognition of shapes, lines, colors, etc.

Sleep is an essential part of daily routine. As you rest and relax during the night, the body carries out repair and restoration processes to help you stay healthy. The position and level of comfort while asleep can affect this process. Certain sleeping positions may cause or worsen pain, exert stress on the spine, or increase stiffness in the back. Here is a look at how sleeping positions can affect sleep: Finding the best sleeping position When it comes to sleep, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Your ideal sleeping position depends on factors such as your health, lifestyle, spinal alignment, and comfort. However, sleeping on the back or side is generally considered more beneficial than sleeping on your stomach. This is because your spine is better supported and balanced in the former, making room for pressure relief and muscle relaxation. Sleeping on your side A whopping 60% of adults sleep on their sides. For children, it is common to alternate between different sleeping positions, but as the flexibility of the spine decreases, there is a clear preference for side sleeping. Sleeping on the side is associated with several health benefits, like promoting healthy spinal alignment, reducing pain in the neck and the back, and decreasing the risk of heartburn and snoring.

A good night’s sleep is as important as following a balanced meal plan and exercising regularly. Poor sleeping habits have an adverse effect on your hormones and the functioning of the brain. It can interfere with your cognitive functions as well as physical health. Tossing and turning every night causes sleep disturbance. There are many reasons for this, including poor sleep hygiene. Therefore, you need to follow a proper sleep routine to maintain your health.  Here are a few things that you should avoid for a healthy sleep cycle. Avoid making poor food choices before bedtime Don’t overeat or starve yourself before bedtime. It is best to avoid having a heavy meal three hours before bedtime. Overeating can trigger  heartburn , and this can cause delays in falling asleep. Also, try to avoid caffeine-based products as they have stimulating effects on your body, which may further interfere with your sleep. They will initially make you feel drowsy but later disrupt your sleep cycle. It is also said that such beverages can increase the symptoms of snoring, sleep apnea, and disrupted sleep patterns. Also, harmful substances can reduce the production of melatonin during night-time, leading to sleep deprivation. Late night binges on greasy, processed foods like pizza, and burgers may also affect your sleep.  Cut down on daytime naps Napping at the wrong time of day may be harmful if you habitually do it.