What is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in Americans over the age of 65. It results from changes to the macula, which is part of the retina. The retina is the light sensitive tissue that lines the back of the eye, and the macula is the portion of the retina that is responsible for clear, sharp vision, and is located at the center of the retina.
Symptoms of macular degeneration:
- A gradual loss of ability to see objects clearly,
- Distorted vision,
- A gradual loss of color vision and
- Dark or empty areas appearing in the center of vision.
If you experience any of these, contact our office immediately for a comprehensive examination.
Two types of macular degenetration:
1. Dry Macular Degeneration: Most people with macular degeneration have the dry form, which is less likely to lead to severe vision loss. There is no known treatment for the dry form of macular degeneration, but specific combinations of vitamins have been shown to slow the progression of the disease.
2. Wet Macular degeneration: is the less common form of the disease and is the more advanced form of the disease that can lead to severe vision loss. Fortunately there are treatments for wet macular degeneration. The wet form may respond to laser procedures, as well as certain medications, if diagnosed and treated early.
In cases where vision is decreased or when treatment has not been successful, the vision that is lost to macular degeneration cannot be restored. However, there are specialized optical devices (called low vision devices), such as telescopic and microscopic lenses that can be prescribed to make the most out of remaining vision.
-Lower your salt intake
- Wear your sunglasses when outside
- Quit (or never start) Smoking - Smoking is the biggets risk factor for macular degeneration
- Maintain a healthy diet - eat plenty of green leafy vegetables and brightly colored vegetables such as beets and carrots.