Macular Degeneration 101: A Closer Look

Even though macular degeneration treatment in Haslet, TX is common, many patients don’t know a lot about this common eye health condition. Take a look at some of the most common questions about macular degeneration.
 

What is macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration causes deterioration of a small area in the back of the eye situated in the retina. This small area is the macula, which is partially responsible for giving you the ability to see what is directly in front of you. Macular degeneration can be either wet (abnormal blood vessels) or dry (occurs due to drusen proteins).
 

What are the symptoms of macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration comes along with changes to your vision. These vision changes can be slight in the beginning. And, when both eyes are affected concurrently, you are not as likely to recognize the changes. Symptoms can also vary depending on the specific type of macular degeneration. A few symptoms include:
 

• Distortions in vision, such as straight lines looking blurred

• Reduced levels of central vision

• Difficulty seeing in low lighting

• Difficulty with facial recognition
   

How is macular degeneration treated?

Macular degeneration is not a curable condition. However, the optometrist can offer treatments that may slow the progression of visual changes. Treatment can vary depending on whether you have dry or wet macular degeneration. Some treatment options that may be recommended include:
 

• Anti-VEGF (anti-vascular endothelial growth factor) medication injections

• Photodynamic laser therapy to close leaking blood vessels

• Photocoagulation to get rid of abnormal blood vessels

• Low-vision rehabilitation
   

Find a Haslet, TX Optometrist for Advice

Macular degeneration is a worrisome eye health condition, but early diagnosis and management makes a major difference. Therefore, be sure to talk to a Haslet eye doctor for advice. If you are at risk of macular generation or believe you have symptoms, reach out to ys at Joy Family Eye Care for an appointment.