Macular Degeneration

One of the most common causes of vision loss, macular degeneration can permanently damage your retina without early intervention. The expert ophthalmologists at Eye Site Sacramento in Sacramento and Folsom, California, work with you to prevent and treat macular degeneration while preserving your central vision. Call the nearest office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What is macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a gradual loss of central vision. The macula is the center portion of the retina. It helps bring your vision into focus. When the macula degrades, your central vision blurs. Most cases of macular degeneration are age-related, though it can affect younger adults. The condition usually develops gradually, but it can occur suddenly without warning.

What are the signs of macular degeneration?

Symptoms of macular degeneration can vary, but most people experience:

• Blurred vision
• Central vision blind spots
• Straight lines that look wavy
• Problems recognizing faces

Your ophthalmologist can tell if you have macular degeneration during a routine eye exam. One of the most common symptoms is drusen, tiny yellow deposits in the eyes.

What causes macular degeneration?

There are two types of macular degeneration you can develop:

Dry

This most common type of macular degeneration has no known cause. It occurs when the macula’s light-sensitive cells break down. Experts believe genetics and environmental factors contribute to its development.

Wet

Wet macular degeneration is more severe than its dry counterpart. The condition happens when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak fluid. This type of macular degeneration can develop quickly and lead to blindness without treatment.

Common risk factors for macular degeneration include:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• High cholesterol
• Age (being over 50 years old)
• Cigarette use
• A high-fat diet

If you have any risk factors for macular degeneration, your ophthalmologist can create a comprehensive preventive care plan to reduce your chance of developing the condition.
 

What are the treatments for macular degeneration?

Treatments for macular degeneration depend on the type you have. There is currently no cure for dry macular degeneration, but rehabilitation and vision devices can help reduce your symptoms. If you have wet macular degeneration, your provider may inject an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment to stabilize your vision.

Can I prevent macular degeneration?

While macular degeneration isn’t always preventable, you can take certain steps to lower your risk. Following a healthy diet low in saturated fat, quitting smoking, and managing your cholesterol levels can help prevent this progressive eye condition.

Call Eye Site Sacramento today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about macular degeneration.