4 Facts About Macular Degeneration
If you’re looking for a Newport Beach macular degeneration doctor, it can be very stressful to not know what this condition could hold. Macular degeneration is more common than many patients initially think. Even though this condition cannot currently be treated or cured, it’s still possible to work closely with a Newport Beach macular degeneration doctor to manage the condition.
Here are a few facts about macular degeneration to keep in mind before making an appointment with a macular degeneration doctor in Newport Beach:
- Macular degeneration is a condition that often occurs as individuals age. Age-related macular degeneration, also known as AMD, is a condition that causes a slow loss of vision as an individual ages. It can progress so slowly in some cases that individuals do not even realize what is occurring until a significant amount of vision has been lost. Individuals between the ages of 50-60 are most at risk for developing AMD, so it can be essential for older individuals to talk with a Newport Beach macular degeneration doctor about their own risk.
- Macular degeneration occurs when a person sustains damage to the macula, which allows the person to see objects at the center of the visual field. Damage can occur naturally over time. However, damage to the macula only significantly affects a person’s ability to see objects that are located straight ahead. Those who suffer from macular degeneration typically retain their peripheral vision.
- As macular degeneration worsens, an individual will likely experience blurriness or dark spots in the center of vision. The condition alone typically does not cause blindness, but if it becomes severe, it can interfere with daily activities quite a bit. Those with advanced cases of macular degeneration could experience a loss of vision significant enough to render them legally blind.
- Certain factors can make an individual more at risk for developing macular degeneration. Smoking is one factor that can increase an individual’s risk of developing macular degeneration. Family history also plays an important role, and individuals with a family history of this condition are more likely to develop it as well. As an experienced macular degeneration doctor Newport Beach can provide might attest, a person’s overall health and diet has a substantial effect on eye health. Poor diet and poor overall health — especially high cholesterol or high blood pressure — can potentially increase a person’s risk for developing macular degeneration.
Contact a Local Newport Beach Macular Degeneration Doctor Today
At the Retina Associates of Orange County, we understand that macular degeneration can initially seem scary for some patients. We work with patients closely so that we can identify individuals at risk, provide suggestions for lowering their risk, and work to create plans on how to manage macular degeneration when it occurs. If you believe you are developing macular degeneration and you wish to make an appointment with a Newport Beach macular degeneration doctor, contact the Retina Associates of Orange County today.