The risk of macular degeneration increases with age, which is why it is important that you are proactive with your visual health. The development of this eye disease can affect the retina and cause issues with your fine detail and central vision.
If you have questions about macular degeneration, then the best thing you can do is schedule an eye exam. We will assess your eye health, identify a diagnosis, and prescribe the right treatment plan to protect your vision. Here are some of the commonly asked questions about the development of this disease:
- What is Macular Degeneration? Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is characterized by the damage that happens to a portion of the retina known as the macula. This damage affects straight-ahead vision.
- What are the Differences Between “Wet” and “Dry” Macular Degeneration? Typically, macular degeneration starts in the “dry” form, which is when small clumps of protein develop and the macula thins. The progression of the disease causes blank spots to appear in the field of vision. Eventually, “dry” AMD can turn into “wet” AMD, which is the stage where abnormal growth of blood vessels start leaking fluid and blood.
- Do I Have a High Risk of AMD? Researchers are still working to identify the exact cause of this eye disease. It has been found that certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing macular degeneration: smoking, poor diet, age, genetics, and obesity.
- How Can I Prevent AMD? A healthy lifestyle is the best way to protect yourself against AMD and other types of eye diseases. Avoid cigarette smoke, maintain a regular exercise routine, and consume a healthy diet with plenty of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It is also recommended to use high quality UV protection outside. Eye protection is also needed if you spend a lot of time looking at digital screens. Blue blocking glasses can reduce the right of wavelength blue light damaging the retina.
- What are My Treatment Options for Macular Degeneration? Certain supplements or medications might be used to slow the progression of AMD so that you can delay vision loss. Sometimes, the treatments are injected into the eyes, or laser therapy might be recommended if the leaking blood vessels need to be sealed.
We are here to support you in maintaining optimal visual health. Contact us to schedule an eye exam and learn more about protecting your vision. Our Temecula office can be reached at (951) 302-1331, or call our Murrieta office at (951) 600-9226.
