Early Interventions and Treatments Can Help Manage Macular Degeneration

The National Eye Institute states that age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of visual loss in America.  According to their statics, close to 2.1 million people 50 years and older had macular degeneration in 2010.  That number is expected to more than double by 2050.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say approximately 6.5 percent of Americans age 40 and above have some degree of the disease.  

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs most often after age 60 and causes loss in the center of the field of vision. The two types of macular degeneration include dry macular degeneration that causes the center of the retina to begin to deteriorate.  In wet macular degeneration, new blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak blood and fluid.  Unusually fuzzy or distorted vision is one symptom and the dry form (85 to 90 percent of AMD cases) is more common than the wet form.  Wet macular degeneration typically leads to more serious vision loss. 

The degeneration of the macula affects our ability to read, recognize faces, drive, and many other visual tasks that requires us to see fine detail.  As the condition progresses, the areas of blurred vision may increase and blank spots may appear. 

The good news is that patients with dry AMD are less likely to go blind than in the past with today’s treatment options that include a specific combination of high-dose vitamins and mineral.  Dr. Peter Campbell, a retina specialist, says that “Prompt recognition of macular degeneration is important to avoid it advancing to the point where failing central vision means people can no longer recognize faces.”  The most important advice he gives is for people over 60 to get regular eye exams.  Risks for the disease include age, smoking and family history. 

At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, our community is designed to provide the utmost care to our residents.  From healthy daily meals to wellness programs and activities, we have a whole range of services and resort-style amenities that ensure the comfort and wellbeing of residents. 

This blog is for informational purposes only.  If you are experiencing any problems with your eyes sight, please consult an ophthalmologist or optometrist.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting.  Please schedule a tour to discover the newest community in the West Des Moines area.

Source:

health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/2018-02-23/macular-degeneration-managing-this-vision-condition

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