The aging process brings a number of changes to your body, including changes to your eyes and vision. One common condition that affects seniors is age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
In observation of National AMD Awareness Month this February, EyeSite of The Villages, your leading provider of eyeglasses and other eye care services, explains everything you need to know about the condition.
Risk Factors, Root Cause and Types
The aging process can cause your macula to deteriorate, leading to AMD. This condition is most common among adults aged 60 and above. Heredity plays a big role in your risk of developing AMD. Being a smoker also increases your risk.
Your eye doctor explains that there are two types of AMD: dry and wet. Dry AMD occurs when the layers of your macula become thin, losing their function. Yellowish eye waste, known as drusen, may form on your retina. Wet AMD occurs when the underlying retinal layer deteriorates, limiting the amount of oxygen and nutrients that reach your eyes. To compensate, new, fragile blood vessels may start to grow. These blood vessels are prone to rupturing due to their delicate nature. As a result, blood and fluids may leak into your macula, compromising your vision.
AMD Management
AMD is dangerous because it is often asymptomatic at first, but can lead to irreversible vision loss. This is why early detection and prompt treatment of AMD is necessary. One of the best things you can do is to undergo a comprehensive eye exam regularly. You should also eat eye-friendly foods and exercise regularly. While there’s no proven cure for AMD yet, we can administer medications and perform surgery to halt the progression of the disease.
Call us today at (352) 504-4560 to request an appointment to learn more about AMD. We see patients from Fruitland Park, FL, and nearby areas.