Find out about more about this serious eye condition and whether you’re at risk.
If you’re checking out this blog, chances are you have either just been diagnosed by your Chicago, IL eye doctor with macular degeneration or you suspect that you may have this disease. This is one of the leading causes of vision loss and it affects over 10 million Americans. Find out more about this condition and how the doctors ofChicagoland Eye Consultants can help slow the progression.
This condition causes a breakdown of the central part of the retina (known as the macula), which imprints what we see and sends these images from the eye to the brain. The macula focuses vision and help us to read, drive, see fine detail and recognize colors and faces.
Vision changes will be subtle at first. You may start to notice that straight lines seem blurry or that your central vision is distorted. There may be white spots or dark blurry regions in your central vision. There may also be a change in how you perceive color.
Even though what causes macular degeneration is not completely conclusive, it is affected by heredity or environmental factors. It’s also an age-related condition.
Are there any risk factors?
One of the biggest risk factors is age, and this condition is more common in those over the age of 55. As you get older your risk of developing this eye condition increases. You are also at an increased risk for developing macular degeneration if you have a family history of this condition, if you are a smoker or if you are Caucasian.
How will my Chicago ophthalmologist treat macular degeneration?
While there is currently no cure for this disorder, there are still things you can do to prevent the condition from progressing quickly. That’s why it’s so important to see your Chicago ophthalmologist right away for a proper diagnosis. Small lifestyle changes like dieting, smoking cessation, exercising and protecting your eyes can help slow your condition.
Supplements may also be prescribed to increase cell structure and healthy pigments. Eye therapies such as Anti-VEGF therapy and laser photocoagulation are also recommended to reduce your chance of vision loss.
You don’t have to be alone with your condition. Turn to the Chicago, IL eye care experts at Chicagoland Eye Consultants for all of your eye-care needs.
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