What Is Macular Degeneration? An FAQ

Macular degeneration is a condition that affects almost 20 million people in the United States. In fact, age-related macular degeneration is the most common cause of severe loss of eyesight for people age 50 and older.

As your eye doctor in Weston, FL, we proudly provide treatment for macular degeneration. Knowing a few things about this condition can help you protect your eyesight. Here’s what we think you need to know about this condition.

What is macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a condition that occurs when you lose your central vision. With age-related macular degeneration, often shortened to AMD, anything in the central field of vision becomes difficult or impossible to see. Anything in the peripheral vision can still be seen.

How is macular degeneration treated?

Macular degeneration cannot be cured. However, there are a number of drugs and therapies that can help delay the progression of AMD long enough to preserve the patient’s vision for a very long time. This is why it’s important to go to the eye doctor regularly: your eye doctor can catch conditions like AMD in its early stages and thus can help you maintain your vision.

How is macular degeneration detected?

Macular degeneration is detected with a comprehensive dilated eye exam. During this kind of exam, the eyes are dilated so that the eye doctor can peek inside. The eye doctor may also perform various tests.

What are the symptoms of AMD?

Some symptoms of AMD include:

• Difficulty recognizing faces
• Blurry vision
• Blind spot in center of vision
• Straight lines appear to be wavy

Who is at risk for macular degeneration?

You may be at risk for macular degeneration if you are over age 50, if you smoke, eat a diet high in saturated fat or have high blood pressure. Lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk of this condition. Exercising, eating right and stopping smoking are all things you can do to reduce the chances of AMD.

Do you need macular degeneration treatment in Weston, FL? Get help today. Contact Rouse Family Eye Care for an appointment to discuss your condition and to get answers to your questions about macular degeneration.