Macular Degeneration and Circulation: How Blood Flow Protects Vision
When it comes to macular degeneration, circulation is everything.
The retina depends on a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients to keep its cells alive and functional.
When that flow slows down, vision begins to fade.
Dr. Andy Rosenfarb emphasizes:
“The eyes are downstream from the heart. If circulation is compromised, the retina is the first to feel it. Improving blood flow is one of the most effective ways to preserve vision.”
Why Circulation Matters for the Macula
The macula is the center of sharp, detailed vision—and one of the most oxygen-demanding tissues in the body.
When blood flow is restricted, even slightly, it leads to:
- Oxygen deprivation (hypoxia)
- Inflammation and fluid buildup
- Toxin accumulation in retinal tissue
- Degeneration of photoreceptor cells
Over time, this creates a perfect storm that accelerates both wet and dry forms of macular degeneration.
Signs of Poor Ocular Circulation
Many patients don’t realize that systemic issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, or poor cardiovascular health directly affect their eyes.
Common symptoms include:
- Cold hands and feet
- Fatigue or brain fog
- Blurred or distorted central vision
- Slow visual recovery after bright light exposure
These are signals that the eyes—and the entire vascular system—need support.
How Holistic Eye Care Improves Circulation
Ophthalmic Acupuncture
Stimulates blood flow to the retina and optic nerve, reduces inflammation, and helps oxygen reach deep into ocular tissue.
Microcurrent Therapy (ACS-3000)
Delivers gentle, alternating current microstimulation to re-energize dormant retinal cells and improve local circulation.
Functional Medicine
Addresses systemic causes such as poor vascular tone, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress.
Nutritional and Herbal Therapy
Dr. Rosenfarb supports ocular microcirculation with targeted nutrients like:
- Ginkgo Biloba – increases blood flow and oxygen utilization
- Turmeric (Curcumin) – reduces vascular inflammation
- Omega-3 fatty acids – improve endothelial function
- Magnesium – helps relax blood vessels and enhance flow
The Role of Lifestyle in Supporting Healthy Circulation
- Exercise regularly to keep the heart and eyes oxygenated.
- Stay hydrated—dehydration thickens the blood and reduces flow.
- Manage stress, which constricts vessels and limits nutrient delivery.
- Avoid smoking, as nicotine drastically narrows blood vessels.
- Eat a circulation-friendly diet, rich in leafy greens, berries, and healthy fats.
“We can’t separate eye health from overall circulation,” Dr. Rosenfarb says. “When the blood flows, the eyes thrive.”
Conventional vs. Holistic Perspective
- Conventional ophthalmology: Focuses on managing the effects of poor circulation (such as swelling or bleeding) through injections or medication.
- Holistic ophthalmology: Works to restore and strengthen circulation, helping prevent future damage rather than only reacting to it.
Next Steps
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with macular degeneration:
- Learn more about holistic treatment options.
- Explore the AcuVision 12-Week Program.
- Schedule a Telehealth consultation with Dr. Rosenfarb to discuss a personalized vision recovery plan.
- Learn more about in-office treatments.