Answering Questions About Macular Degeneration

One of the most common age-related eye diseases is macular degeneration, with over 11 million people in the country currently living with this condition. Unfortunately, many people have limited knowledge about this disease.

In today’s post, Six One Six Vision Center, an eye care specialist in the area, answers the frequently asked questions about macular degeneration.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

To understand how macular degeneration can damage your eyesight, we’ll first discuss the function of the macula. This eye component consists of millions of light-sensing cells that are responsible for providing central vision. Damage to the macula leads to blurry, distorted or dark central vision. The specific cause of macular degeneration is not fully understood, though heredity and certain environmental factors are believed to play a role.

What Are the Risk Factors?

Age-related macular degeneration most commonly affects people over the age of 60, though the condition can also develop earlier. Smoking, race and family history can also increase the risk of developing macular degeneration. Visit your local eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam to check for underlying signs of this condition.

How Is Macular Degeneration Treated?

Similar to glaucoma, vision loss due to macular degeneration is irreversible. You can, however, reduce your risk of developing the disease or slow the progression of it. Pursuing a healthy lifestyle can help keep your eyesight healthy. Avoiding smoking and protecting your eyes from ultraviolet rays with full-time sunglass wear can also help maintain clear vision.

Count on Six One Six Vision Center for your visual health needs. Our optometrist and eye doctor conduct comprehensive eye exams, dry eye tests and myopia control programs to help preserve your vision. Call us today at (208) 514-1858 to schedule an appointment. We serve residents of Boise and Eagle, ID.