Macular degeneration is a problem in the retina, specifically the macula. There are two types of macular degeneration; wet and dry. Both types of macular degeneration cause vision loss. Macular degeneration cannot be cured, but the progression can be slowed for most people. It is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 50 years old. The earlier macular degeneration is detected, the better the chances of treatment. The first step in detecting macular degeneration is a comprehensive eye exam. If you live in or around Katy, TX, and have concerns about macular degeneration, contact Dr. Han at M-Eye Vision to schedule an eye exam.
Understanding Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration causes vision loss. Loss of vision does not usually occur in both eyes at the same time. Instead, it usually affects one eye at a time. Some people will only be affected in one eye, while others will have one eye affected and then the other. The loss of vision starts in the center of a person's field of vision. Objects will seem blurry when looking at them straight on, but peripheral vision will remain unchanged. Other early symptoms of the disease include straight lines that suddenly look bent and being unable to tell the difference in shades of colors.
With dry macular degeneration, the retina begins to deteriorate in the center. Dry macular degeneration is the most common type. Nearly 80 percent of patients with macular degeneration have the dry type. With wet macular degeneration, the blood vessels under the retina begin to leak, causing loss of vision. For both types of macular degeneration, blurry vision is the main symptom that causes people to seek treatment.
Treatment Options for Macular Degeneration
During the eye exam, our optometrist will dilate the patient's eyes to look at the eye, specifically the macula. Once macular degeneration is diagnosed, our optometrist will work with you to create a treatment plan. Treatment plans vary depending on the severity of the disease and include several options, from vitamins and minerals to surgery. Other treatment options include eating dark, leafy green foods, anti-VEGF medications, and laser therapy. For most patients, there isn't a cure for this eye disease, but there are ways to slow the progression of the disease and preserve the patient’s vision.
Contact M-Eye Vision in Katy, TX
Contact M-Eye Vision to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with our optometrist. Whether you have symptoms of macular degeneration or have already been diagnosed with this eye disease, we will help you get the best care possible. Call Dr. Han today at (281) 394-7886 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.