FAQs Regarding Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration happens when a part of the eye called the macula becomes compromised. Your macula is actually part of your retina. It’s located near the back of your eye, and its primary purpose is to process color and fine details. As a result, it’s responsible for the acuity of your central vision. If there’s a problem with your macula, you may notice changes to your vision that include blurred or fuzzy vision and blind spots when you look straight ahead. A visit to your eye doctor in Brunswick, GA, can diagnose macular degeneration.

What Causes Macular Degeneration?

Several factors may contribute to macular degeneration. For many, this is an age-related disorder that sometimes affects people over the age of 50. Gradual changes in vision may point to the dry form of this condition that’s caused by the breakdown of the macula’s light-sensitive cells. While doctors aren’t sure exactly why this happens, they do believe it may have genetic or environmental roots.

Severe macular degeneration often happens as a result of the wet form of this disorder. This happens when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak blood and fluid that blocks your vision. Lifestyle and diseases such as chronic hypertension may lead to wet macular degeneration.

Who Is Most At-Risk of Developing Macular Degeneration?

Some people are more at-risk than others of developing this debilitation eye condition. They include:

• Smokers
• People who eat a lot of saturated fats
• Those with uncontrolled hypertension
• People over the age of 50.

Regular eye exams with your vision specialist can help detect macular degeneration in its early stages. This may prevent further loss of vision.

Is It Possible to Prevent Macular Degeneration?

You may decrease the risk of developing macular degeneration by making simple changes to your lifestyle. Stop smoking, eat a healthier, lower-fat diet, get regular exercise, and have regular eye exams. If you’re concerned sudden vision changes may signify macular degeneration in Brunswick, GA, make an appointment with Vision Source Family Eye Care today. Vision Source has convenient locations in Brunswick, St. Mary’s, and Jesup, GA, and our friendly and knowledgeable associates are always happy to schedule an appointment time that works for you.