Macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss that affects millions of adults, particularly those over the age of 65. This progressive condition can cause severe central vision loss, making it difficult to perform daily activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces.
Don’t let macular degeneration steal your sight. Understanding the early warning signs can help protect your vision and seek treatment before symptoms worsen.
What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is an eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. It’s one of the leading causes of vision loss in Americans over 65 and comes in two main types:
Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
More than 80% of macular degeneration cases are classified as dry AMD. It occurs when the macula thins over time, leading to a gradual loss of central vision.
Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Though less common, wet AMD is more severe. It happens when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid or blood, causing sudden vision loss.
The exact cause of AMD is unknown, but factors like aging, genetics, and environmental influences can increase your risk. Interestingly, studies have found that women are more likely to develop AMD than men, possibly due to longer life expectancy and hormonal factors.
What Are the Early Warning Signs of Macular Degeneration?
Detecting macular degeneration early is crucial for preserving your vision. The condition can develop in one or both eyes and if it affects only one eye, it may go unnoticed because the healthy eye compensates for the affected one. However, if you already have AMD in one eye, there’s a higher chance it will develop in the other.
Early symptoms of macular degeneration include:
- Blurry or fuzzy vision
- Visual distortions, such as straight lines appearing wavy
- Reduced central vision, with dark or blurry spots in your field of view
- Frequently feeling like lighting isn’t bright enough
These signs often develop gradually, so it’s important to stay alert to any changes in your vision. If you notice these symptoms, take our age-related macular degeneration quiz to learn more.
Treatment for Macular Degeneration
While macular degeneration cannot be reversed, early diagnosis and treatment can slow its progression and help preserve your vision. Treatment options vary depending on the type of macular degeneration:
Ocular Injections for Wet AMD
Ocular injections are a common and effective treatment for wet AMD. They work by inhibiting abnormal blood vessel growth and reducing fluid leakage in the retina.
Lifestyle & Dietary Changes for Dry AMD
Lifestyle changes can help manage dry AMD. These include maintaining a healthy diet rich in leafy greens, fish, and antioxidants. A combination of vitamins and minerals, such as those recommended in the AREDS (Age-Related Eye Disease Study), can also slow disease progression.
Florida Eye Specialists offers personalized care plans for both wet and dry AMD. “Dr. Lott explained everything. Now, I don’t panic. I’m in good hands, and the treatment works,” said Leland Reineke, a Florida Eye Specialists patient.
“Dr. Lott and the crew at Florida Eye Specialists are the best I’ve ever been around. He takes the time to put you at ease and take away the panic. I can’t speak highly enough of him. The whole team treats me like family, and it’s been a wonderful experience.” To read more about Reineke’s journey, click here.
Protect Your Vision – Schedule an Appointment
Macular degeneration can profoundly impact your quality of life, but early detection and proper care can make all the difference. Learn the signs, seek timely treatment, and take control of your eye health today.
Schedule an appointment at Florida Eye Specialists to discuss your options with one of our experienced specialists.