What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is a condition that causes irreversible vision loss. It can occur at any age, but it typically affects people who are over the age of 60. The macula is center of the retina. Macular degeneration occurs when the macula starts to deteriorate.
Types of Macular Degeneration
There are two types of macular degeneration, which are the dry form and wet form. The dry form occurs when yellow deposits develop in the eyes. The yellow deposits are known as drusen.
The wet form occurs when abnormal blood vessels form in the macula. These blood vessels cause fluid to leak into the retina. Dry macular degeneration is the most common form of this condition. In fact, it is estimated that 80 percent of people have dry macular degeneration.
What Are Some of The Risk Factors for Macular Degeneration?
Anyone can develop macular degeneration in Boca Raton. However, the following factors can increase your risk of developing this condition.
- Eating a diet that is high in saturated fat
- Being obese
- Smoking cigarettes
- Being over the age of 50
- Having a family history of this condition
- Having hypertension, which is also known as high blood pressure
How Is Macular Degeneration Diagnosed?
There are several ways that macular degeneration can be diagnosed. Your eye doctor can dilate your eyes in order to get a better look at your retina. They can also use an Amler grid to look for blank spots in your vision.
Treatment for Macular Degeneration?
The dry form of macular degeneration can be treated with vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein, zinc and copper. You can ensure that you get the proper amount of nutrients by following a well-balanced diet. Anti-VEGF drugs can be used to treat wet macular degeneration. These drugs can reduce the abnormal blood vessels in your retina. Laser surgery may also be recommended.
If you suffer from macular degeneration in Boca Raton, then you will need to contact Retinal Eye Care at retinaleyecare.com
