As we age, we are at higher risk of developing eye diseases and conditions that can affect our sight, as well as causing discomfort that can affect our everyday lives. This is the fourth entry in the five part series of articles we wrote to help you to understand all of the details of the five most common conditions in the later years of our lives.
Today, we’re discussing Macular Degeneration.
What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular Degeneration or Age Related Macular Degeneration, is an eye disorder that results in damage to central and sharp vision often associated with old age. There are two forms of Macular Degeneration, with Dry being the most common, affecting 70-90% of all cases.
What are some of the common symptoms of Macular Degeneration?
Dry Macular Degeneration happens when the macula thins over time, as we age. This condition causes blurred central vision. It is slow progressing, generally affects both eyes, and over time can lead to vision loss. One of the common early signs of Dry Macular Degeneration is drusen (yellow deposits under the retina).
Wet Macular Degeneration happens when abnormal blood vessels begin to grow behind the retina under the macula. This leads to blood and fluid leakage, scarring, and rapid central vision loss. Early symptoms in Wet Macular Degeneration is that straight lines appear wavy.
What are some of the causes of Macular Degeneration?
Macular Degeneration is caused primarily by aging over time, but may also include:
- Being overweight or having diabetes
- Having a family history of the condition, especially if you are Caucasian
- Smoking
- Having high blood pressure
- Eating a diet high in saturated fats
How do we treat Macular Degeneration?
Early detection is key to slowing the progression of Macular Degeneration and making the symptoms less severe. The treatments may include nutritional supplements, laser therapy and photodynamic therapy, and medications. There is no cure for the disease.
How do I prevent developing Macular Degeneration?
Take these steps to lower your risk of Macular Degeneration:
- Quit smoking, or don’t start
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Stay physically active
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in green leafy foods and monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels
Learning more about Macular Degeneration and other conditions doesn’t have to be scary. We’re here for you. So send us your questions—give us a call, shoot us a text, or write us an email. We’ll make sure you have all the information you need to make healthy choices that may help you to avoid these diseases.