What Is Macular Degeneration And Who Is At Risk For It?

Macular degeneration is an eye disease that affects your central vision. Keep reading to learn what macular degeneration is, its symptoms, and who is at higher risk for developing it. If you are concerned about macular degeneration or just need eye care, come visit our team at Optica 20/20 in San Antonio, TX.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

The macula is the part of your eye responsible for sharp, straight-ahead vision. This vision is critical for activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces. Macular degeneration causes damage to the macula, resulting in blurry or lost central vision.

There are two main types of macular degeneration:

•           Dry macular degeneration causes thinning of the macula tissues over time.

•           Wet macular degeneration is more severe and involves abnormal blood vessel growth under the macula.

Early detection from our eye doctor near you is key to preserving your vision with macular degeneration.

What Are the Symptoms?

Symptoms of macular degeneration include:

•           Blurry central vision

•           Dark or empty spaces in central vision

•           Distorted vision

•           Trouble recognizing faces

•           Need for brighter light to see

Subtle changes may begin years before major vision loss. Regular comprehensive eye exams can help diagnose macular degeneration in the early stages when treatment is most effective.

Who Is at Risk for Macular Degeneration?

You may be at higher risk for macular degeneration if you are over 50 years old, smoke, are obese, eat a poor diet, or have a family history of macular degeneration. High blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and high cholesterol also increase risk. Ultraviolet light exposure and being of Caucasian descent are other risk factors. Talk to your eye doctor if you are concerned about your risk for macular degeneration.

How Is Macular Degeneration Diagnosed and Treated?

Our optometrist can diagnose macular degeneration during a dilated eye exam. We may perform additional tests to evaluate your central vision and the health of the macula. Treatment aims to slow vision loss and may include medications, injections, laser therapy, or vitamin supplements. Catching macular degeneration early provides the best opportunity to limit vision damage.

Schedule an Appointment for an Eye Exam Near You in San Antonio, TX

Do not take your vision health for granted. Schedule an eye exam with Optica 20/20 in San Antonio, TX, if you have any concerns about changes in your vision. Our eye doctors provide same day appointments and walk-in eye exam to promptly evaluate macular degeneration and other eye conditions. Detecting eye diseases early can make a critical difference in protecting your sight. Call us at (210)-928-2020 to schedule an appointment.