What Is Macular Degeneration?

A comprehensive eye exam may be the first step to detecting macular degeneration. The eye doctor will check for any abnormalities in the retina using a special test called fluorescein angiography. Some risk factors for this disease include UV exposure and a low intake of fruits and vegetables. Also, light-skinned individuals and those with blue eyes may be more susceptible to the disease.

Dry form of macular degeneration

Dry form of macular degeneration is a degenerative eye disease that affects older individuals. The disease causes a slow deterioration of central vision. It is characterized by the buildup of yellow deposits called drusen under the macula. These deposits slowly merge together and damage the sensitive retinal tissue. Early detection of this disease can help delay vision loss. Symptoms of dry form of macular degeneration include loss of central vision, blind spots, and reduced vision.

Dry form of macular degeneration can affect either one or both eyes. People who suffer from this disease should visit a doctor regularly to monitor its progress. A dilated eye exam is recommended for people over 50 years. This exam will help detect any changes in the retina.

Risk factors

Age is the most common risk factor for macular degeneration, but there are other factors that can increase your risk, too. One of these is family history. The condition can occur in both men and women. It is a progressive vision loss that affects the central part of the vision. It can make everyday tasks difficult. Nutritional supplements and laser therapy can help slow the progression of the disease.

Other risk factors include genetics and sun exposure. A recent study conducted in the Chesapeake Bay concluded that fishermen who spend part of their day working under bright light were more likely to develop macular degeneration. Overexposure to bright light can damage the retina, and many ophthalmologists recommend wearing sunglasses and hats when outside.

Diagnosis

The first step in diagnosing macular degeneration is to see an ophthalmologist. They will perform a comprehensive eye exam, which will include dilation of the pupils. This allows them to examine the macula, retina, and other structures in the eye. They will also look for signs of the disease, such as loss of central vision.

Usually, the early stages of macular degeneration show few or no symptoms. However, people with the disease may experience blurred vision or loss of central vision. This vision loss can come suddenly, and most people don’t even know they’ve got it until they undergo a routine eye exam.

Treatment

The treatments for age-related macular degeneration have come a long way since the disease was first described over a century ago. Researchers first began looking at the disease’s causes, and treatments were developed over the next 30 years. In some cases, the treatments can restore some of a patient’s visual acuity. Eye Doctor in Lancaster Similarly, glaucoma treatments were first described around 150 years ago. Albrecht von Graefe was the first to introduce iridectomy, a treatment for closed angle glaucoma.

Early treatment for macular degeneration is critical for slowing the progression of the condition. Early treatment can slow the loss of central vision significantly. It is also important to monitor the disease closely so that the doctor can treat the problem in a timely manner. This disease primarily affects the macula, the central portion of the retina, which processes central vision. The macula is an important part of our vision, helping us recognize faces and fine detail.