The Symptoms, Causes, And Treatment Of Macular Degeneration
What Are the Symptoms Of Macular Degeneration?
Macular Degeneration is predominant in adults aged 60 and above. Some of the common signs and symptoms include:
- Central vision is affected due to a central blind spot. Vision continues to deteriorate over time, although side vision will remain intact
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty making out faces and other activities such as watching TV, sports, reading, driving
- Vision difficulties in low light conditions
- Loss of color vision during the later stages
What Are The Causes Of Macular Degeneration?
The notable causes of macular degeneration are:
- Age – This is the biggest risk factor for macular degeneration
- Genetics – Individuals with a family history of AMD
- Biological process
- Smoking
- Race – AMD is prevalent among Caucasians compared to Hispanics, Latinos, or African Americans.
- Environment
- Poor nutrition
Treatment For Macular Degeneration
For now, no known cure exists for macular degeneration. However, there are certain lifestyle changes that can help manage the condition and slow down the progression. These lifestyle changes include dieting, avoiding smoking, and regular exercises. Patients should also protect their eyes from direct sunlight exposure or UV rays.
At Peter E DeGraziano, OD, PC, we’re committed to changing the lives of patients with macular degeneration by giving them the right tools to live an independent, high quality of life. Our goal is to help our patients get back to doing the things they enjoy every day.
To do that, we offer AMD patients several low vision aids and glasses that can help enhance and optimize their remaining vision. We provide patients with personalized vision aids including bioptic telescopic glasses, low vision magnifying reading glasses, and other customized, prescription binoculars or telescopes. With these aids, patients can live a quality life and carry out other activities just like people with normal vision.
What’s more, we understand that the severity of macular degeneration usually varies between patients. Our low vision doctor, Dr. Peter DeGraziano, OD, FAAO, FIALVS, will recommend custom-made eyeglasses for you. It’s legal to drive with these glasses in most states. If properly used, you can also enjoy a normal and independent life with our low vision glasses.
Contact Us Today
If you have been diagnosed with macular degeneration, there is still hope for you. Contact us today at Peter E DeGraziano, OD, PC. Our low vision doctor, Dr. Peter DeGraziano, OD, FAAO, FIALVS will be available to speak with you and discuss your options. We will carry out a comprehensive eye exam to determine your eye condition. If you are diagnosed with AMD, we will provide you with personalized low vision glasses.