Are You at Risk of Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a serious eye disease that may lead to significant vision loss. Most commonly associated with age, there are different factors and causes of macular degeneration. Learn if you are at risk and what you can do to either prevent the onset or treat the condition.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

The macula is part of the retina in the eye and controls straight-ahead vision. Damage to the macula results in central vision loss and is known as macular degeneration.

What Are Early Signs?

Though early signs may vary, there are a few common ones:

• Blurry vision
• Difficulty making out faces and shapes
• Straight lines appearing wavy
• Central vision being affected

Any change in vision can necessitate a visit to the eye doctor, so make sure to get checked if you’ve been experiencing vision problems.

Who Is at Risk of Macular Degeneration?

Risk factors can vary for macular degeneration, as there are different types; however, for the most common one, age-related macular degeneration, there are common risk factors, including:

• Familial history of macular degeneration
• Poor dietary habits, including diets high in saturated fats
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Heart disease or high blood pressure
• Age

If you worry you may be at risk for developing macular degeneration, make sure you visit an eye doctor. Even if you aren’t exhibiting symptoms now, you may be able to intervene to help prevent onset.

Can You Prevent Macular Degeneration?

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine examined different methods of preventing or slowing macular degeneration onset and found a few things that may help, such as:

• Lifestyle changes such as proper diet and exercise
• A diet consisting of foods high in antioxidants and minerals
• Managing exposure to UV with sunglasses
• Cessation of smoking

Working with an eye doctor can help examine your specific risks, and they may be able to help you formulate a plan to prevent macular degeneration onset.

Work With Longwood Eye & Lasik To Treat Macular Degeneration

Despite how serious the condition can be, it is treatable. At Longwood Eye & LASIK Center, serving Gardner, Greenfield, West Springfield, Fitchburg, MA, and the surrounding areas, they offer a variety of treatments, including laser interventions, nutritional supplementation, and surgery.

If you believe you are at risk for macular degeneration or have it already work with Longwood Eye & LASIK Center by calling 800-676-5050 to schedule an appointment.