Macular Degeneration

What is macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is typically an age-related condition that affects the macula in your retina. The retina is located in the back of your eye and controls your central vision. Your peripheral vision isn’t affected by macular degeneration. This eye disease generally appears in people over age 50 and can develop in one or both eyes.  

There's no cure for macular degeneration, but treatment can maximize your eye health and prevent blindness. 

What are the different types of macular degeneration?

The two types of macular degeneration include: 

Wet macular degeneration

Wet macular degeneration affects about 10% of people with the condition and is more severe than the dry form. It develops when abnormal blood vessels appear under your retina and leak  fluid and blood into the macula 

Because of the fluid buildup, a bulge appears in your macula, and you may see dark spots in your central vision. Wet macular degeneration often causes quick vision loss.

Dry macular degeneration

Dry macular degeneration is the more common form, affecting almost 90% of people with the condition. It develops when small yellow protein deposits build up and damage your macula. Vision loss appears gradually. Dry macular degeneration can change into the wet form of the disease.

What are the symptoms of macular degeneration?

The symptoms of macular degeneration include:

• Blurry vision
• Wavy vision
• Central vision loss
• Other vision changes
• Poor night vision
• Change in color vision
• Seeing dark spots

You may not have any symptoms in the early stages of macular degeneration. 

What are the risk factors for macular degeneration?

Risk factors for developing macular degeneration include:

• Being over age 60
• Family history of macular degeneration 
• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Infections
• Head injuries

Adopting healthy habits optimizes your eye health and reduces the chance of developing an eye disease. 

How is macular degeneration diagnosed?

Tests that screen for macular degeneration include an annual dilated eye exam, medical history and symptom review, vision screening, and other diagnostic tests. 

How is macular degeneration treated?

Treatment for macular degeneration involves slowing the progression of the disease and saving your vision and include:

• Healthy lifestyle changes
• Dietary supplements
• Medications
• Photodynamic therapy
• Laser therapy

The Vistasite Eye Care of Valley Stream team refers you to a specialist if needed, and offers vision correction (eyeglasses and contacts).

Schedule a consultation at Vistasite Eye Care of Valley Stream by phone or online today.