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Macular Degeneration FAQs

Senior Eye Care Jacksonville, FLMacular Degeneration is a disease we are still learning about. Even though we may not know everything about it, we do know enough to help those who suffer from it. Macular Degeneration is an age-related illness that is the leading cause of vision loss in Americans today. This unfortunate disease affects millions of Americans and, with the aging baby boomer population, there is the risk of many more millions being affected in coming years. With that, it’s very important to understand Macular Degeneration and the signs you need to look out for. Keep reading for more about this serious disease.

What is it?

Macular Degeneration occurs in the retina of the eye, which is the area of the eye that records and transfers images to the brain. The center of the retina is called the macula, and the macula is what is affected in Macular Degeneration (hence the name). The cells in the macula start to deteriorate, which causes vision issues and even vision loss in patients.

How can I identify Macular Degeneration?

Macular Degeneration often starts as wavy or blurred vision in older patients. Sometimes the vision disruption stops there, and doesn’t progress further. Sometimes the conditions can continue growing and when they do, central vision may be completely affected or lost. Patients with severe Macular Degeneration can be declared legally blind.

Macular Degeneration may start without any obvious signs to you. This is why it is so important to have regular check ups with your doctor to check for the health of your eyes.

What causes Macular Degeneration?

While we don’t know exactly what causes Macular Degeneration, we do know of certain risk factors lead to more increased chances of developing Macular Degeneration. If you’re above the age of 55, have a family history of Macular Degeneration, or Caucasian, then you may have an increased risk of developing Macular Degeneration.

Can I treat Macular Degeneration?

Unfortunately, Macular Degeneration is currently considered an incurable disease. Your doctor can help you identify issues and give advice on how to manage your symptoms.

Call us to learn more about keeping your eyes healthy. Please contact us at (904) 355-5555 to learn more or to schedule a consultation today.

Posted in: Macular Degeneration