Precision Eye Group is here to help your whole family maintain their vision and eye health. At our convenient locations in Honesdale, Dingmans Ferry, Carbondale, and Lake Ariel, PA, we see many aging patients with concerns about macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss. Keep reading for an understanding of macular degeneration and contact us today to start being proactive about your vision health.
What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is a chronic and progressive eye disease that affects the macula, a part of the retina that is responsible for the center of the field of vision. It is often referred to as AMD or age-related macular degeneration. The main symptom is blurred vision, and it can occur in one or both eyes.
What Causes Macular Degeneration?
There are two types of AMD, categorized by what is affecting the health of the macula:
- Dry AMD is caused by a combination of the thinning of the macula related to age, and the accumulation of protein deposits underneath the macula. Dry AMD accounts for 80% of all AMD cases.
- Wet AMD is caused by abnormal blood vessels forming underneath the macula. These blood vessels leak blood and fluid, and the fluid builds up to cause a bulge in the macula. Wet AMD is more severe and can quickly lead to total vision loss.
Risk Factors
Many people have the misconception that losing vision can be a natural part of aging, but age is not the only risk factor for macular degeneration. There are ways you can manage your risk of macular degeneration and vision loss:
- Keep regular appointments with your eye doctor for early diagnosis, especially when you have a family history of AMD
- Maintain a healthy weight with a balanced diet and regular exercise
- Control your blood sugar and cholesterol levels
- Refrain from smoking
There is no cure for macular degeneration, but early detection and treatment with medications and supplements can help slow the progression of the disease.
Treat Your Eyes Today
When you are worried about macular degeneration in Lake Ariel, PA, Precision Eye Group is here to help. As you age, keep up with regular appointments at our locations in Honesdale, Dingmans Ferry, Carbondale, and Lake Ariel, PA, to manage your risk of vision loss. Contact our eye doctors in Honesdale at (570) 253-6551, Carbondale at (570) 282-4080, Dingmans Ferry at (570) 686-1102, and Lake Ariel at (570) 698-4140.