What Is Macular Degeneration and How Can It Affect Me?
Macular degeneration is an eye disease that targets the macular part of your eye. It is most common in older people and is a progressive disease with no cure. However, early detection and treatment can significantly slow progression and provide a higher quality of life. Let’s explore what macular degeneration is and how it affects people.
Understanding Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration affects your central vision by damaging the macula. The macular is the center part of your retina. Your retina resides in the back of your eye and controls all central vision. This means macular degeneration doesn’t affect peripheral vision and rarely causes complete blindness.
Wet Vs. Dry Macular Degeneration
Wet and dry macular degeneration are the two types of macular degeneration and are categorized by their cause. Wet macular degeneration is when abnormal blood vessels grow near the macular and leak fluid or blood. This build-up of fluid forms a bludge against or on the macular. This leads to dark spots in vision and progresses rapidly. Wet macular degeneration is often more severe than dry macular degeneration and is less common.
Dry macular degeneration is when small protein deposits called drusen develop underneath the macula. These build-ups eventually dry the macula and cause thinning. This slowly damages the macula and causes vision loss over time. This is the most common form of macular degeneration.
Causes of Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is often an inherited condition but can also be caused by other things. Some common causes of macular degeneration include diabetes, aging, head or eye injuries, infections, or malnourishment.
Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration affects your central vision and can lead to different symptoms. Some common symptoms include decreased vision in low light, blurry vision, changes or difficulty seeing color, blank or dark spots in vision, general poor vision, and straight lines appearing curved or wavy.
Seeking Treatment
Treating macular degeneration first starts by catching it early through routine eye exams. Thankfully, Central Valley Eye Medical Group provides comprehensive eye exams and macular degeneration treatment. Our team is a leader in the ophthalmic community and is proud to bring our expertise to all of your vision needs. If you’re concerned about macular degeneration or need a routine eye exam, then contact Central Valley Eye Medical Group at 1-800-244-9907 today.
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