Age-related macular degeneration is one of those conditions that most people haven’t heard of until a loved one is diagnosed with the disorder. In its earliest stages, the symptoms of age-related macular degeneration can be easily missed until the condition either advances or affects the vision in both eyes.
Many eye diseases do not show symptoms, and the onset may be gradual. While eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts and retinal detachment are often painless, they can greatly impair vision if not promptly treated.
Early Warning Signs of Macular Degeneration
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have the early warning signs of a serious eye health problem such as macular degeneration:
- The distortion of straight lines;
- Center of the visual field is blurry, distorted or whited out;
- Distinguishing subtle contrasts and textures such as recognizing stairs can become more difficult and depth perception can also become impaired;
- Reduced tolerance for changes in light levels and an increased need for more light when performing daily tasks;
- Color perception is changed or impaired.
The aging eye also becomes more prone to diseases that can threaten the sight in your eyes, and without intervention by a health care professional and if left untreated, can lead to blindness.
The most common causes of vision loss in the over-50’s age group result from conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy, as well as other less common problems related to general health issues such as blood pressure and cholesterol.
If you have a parent who is already over 60, then age itself becomes a risk factor for developing macular degeneration. Other risk factors include smoking, obesity and a family history of the disease. The best way to catch macular degeneration early is by committing to regular eye exams.
The FDA has approved a number of different treatments for macular degeneration, depending on the type diagnosed (wet or dry) and the severity of symptoms. These range from an implantable miniature telescope to medical injections delivered directly to the eye.
As with any health concern, though, the best treatment is prevention – eat plenty of dark leafy green vegetables, avoid smoking and always protect your eyes from UVA/UVB exposure when spending time in the sun.
If you have an eye condition that is due to disease, keep in mind there are probably many effective medical treatments. The key is getting diagnosed as early as possible to learn about the treatments available to you.
If you would like a to know more about the treatment of macular degeneration of the eye or if you are interested in learning more about homeopathic or alternative treatments, visit our website today at www.HealingTheEye.com and then ask how you can become a patient of ours.
