19 May Macular Degeneration: Causes, Symptoms & When to Get Help
Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of vision loss, especially in people over the age of 50. It affects the macula, the small part of your retina that helps you see sharp, clear details. When the macula gets damaged, it becomes harder to see things straight ahead, like people’s faces or words in a book.
There are two main types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. Dry macular degeneration is the most common. It happens slowly over time as the macula wears down. Wet macular degeneration is less common, but it can cause vision loss much faster. It happens when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid or blood.
What Causes Macular Degeneration?
The exact cause isn’t always known, but several things can increase your risk:
- Age: It’s more common in people over 50.
- Family history: If a close relative has it, your chances are higher.
- Smoking: This greatly increases your risk.
- Poor diet: Not eating enough fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fats can hurt your eye health.
- Sun exposure: Too much UV light without protection may also be a factor.
Symptoms to Watch For
Macular degeneration often starts without pain or clear signs, so regular eye exams are important. As the condition gets worse, you might notice:
- Blurry or fuzzy vision when looking straight ahead
- Trouble recognizing faces
- Needing brighter light to read
- Dark or empty spots in your central vision
- Straight lines looking wavy or crooked
These changes can make daily tasks like reading, driving, or using a computer harder.
When to Get Help
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Getting your eyes checked quickly can make a big difference. While there’s no cure for macular degeneration, there are treatments that may slow it down and help protect your vision. These might include lifestyle changes, eye vitamins, and special injections (for the wet type).
The best way to stay ahead of macular degeneration is to have regular comprehensive eye exams. If it’s been more than a year since your last visit, it’s time to book an appointment. Early detection is key.
Let’s protect your sight, schedule your eye exam today!