Diagnosing and Treating Macular Degeneration

Diagnosing and Treating Macular Degeneration

Diagnosing and Treating Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a serious eye condition that can result in vision loss. It affects the retina and causes central vision loss. The macular is the central part of the retina that has light-sensitive tissue. It helps the eye to see color as well as the 20/20 vision. Macular degeneration is a condition that causes yellow deposits to form in the retina, causing central vision loss.

 

What Are the Symptoms of Macular Degeneration?

 

Macular degeneration starts slowly and progresses with time. Early-stage macular degeneration is very hard to detect. Here are the symptoms of macular degeneration:
 

  • Blurred vision
     

  • Distortion of straight lines
     

  • Distortion of central vision while retaining good peripheral vision
     

  • Poor visibility in low light
     

  • Trouble recognizing faces
     

  • Spots in your central vision
     

  • Worsening symptoms

     

What Is the Diagnostic Test for Macular Degeneration?

 

Eye specialists use the Amsler Grid to test for macular degeneration. To the normal eye, the Amsler grid is made up of straight vertical and horizontal lines that make small boxes in the grid. The grid has a dot in the middle. If you have macular degeneration, the grid appears distorted or missing in some areas. The specialist also checks the condition of blood vessels behind the retina.

 

If there are signs of yellow deposits, bleeding, or spots that distort your vision, the test is positive for macular degeneration. Non-invasive imaging of the retina can be used to check for any unusual fluid buildup in the macular. The specialist also checks for thinning or thickening of the retina, which distorts light coming in the retina.

 

Who Is at Risk?

 

People with a family history of the condition are most at risk. A large number of diabetic people and hypertensive people also suffer from macular degeneration. High cholesterol and obesity also lead to fat deposits in the macular. Older people who are over the age of sixty-five are also at risk of developing this condition. Smoking cigarettes and excess use of recreational drugs can also cause macular degeneration.

 

What’s the Treatment and Care for Macular Degeneration?

 

Macular degeneration can be treated with laser photocoagulation. This seals damaged blood vessels and stops them from leaking in the macular. You can also go for vascular endothelial growth factor therapy (VEGF). Specialists inject medicine in the affected area to encourage the growth of new blood vessels.

 

Home Remedies and Helpful Tips

 

If you know that you are at high risk for macular degeneration, it is wise to have regular comprehensive exams. If it is caught early, the intervention can be done early before it progresses to glaucoma. Choose a healthy lifestyle free from drugs and eat a well-balanced diet. Manage other medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and high blood pressure. Always avoid high cholesterol foods. Keep a healthy weight and exercise often.

 

For people with a positive diagnosis, take treatments and medication seriously. Add some vitamin C and vitamin E supplements to your diet. Consult with your specialist if you should be driving. Use good lighting while reading or using a computer. In case the symptoms change rapidly, visit the nearest specialist.

 

Learn more about diagnosing & preventing macular degeneration, contact Today’s Vision in Laguna Niguel, CA at (949) 518-0055 to book an appointment.

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