When you have macular degeneration, it's a serious eye disease that needs to be treated as early as possible for the best results. This condition can have a number of adverse effects on both your vision and your overall quality of life. It's essential to get your eye exam from an ophthalmologist every year so that you can be screened for this eye condition, especially if you experience blurry vision. Never put off your eye exams so that you can always receive early treatment if you have an eye disease.
This can help you minimize vision loss as the condition progresses. If you need treatment for macular degeneration or another eye problem, our team at Cornea & Cataract Consultants of Nashville is available. If you are in the Nashville, Franklin, or Murfreesboro areas, you may need to see the eye surgeon for your eye health problems.
Macular Degeneration Basics
So, what exactly is macular degeneration? It's a serious eye disease that can significantly impair your vision. For some patients, it can lead to such extensive vision loss that their independence is threatened. Often, macular degeneration is linked to aging. For the best treatment results, this condition must be diagnosed early. Once it begins, it causes central vision problems, resulting in significant vision loss in the center of the visual field.
Because it's often age-related, it's more common in individuals who are at least 60 years old. It generally progresses slowly as more and more vision is lost. While it doesn't usually lead to complete blindness, it can have a significant impact on vision. This condition occurs when the macula of the eye begins to break down, though the exact cause is still unknown.
The Risk Factors of Macular Degeneration
There are many risk factors for this eye disease. While the exact cause is unclear, there are factors that can increase your likelihood of developing it. Family history plays a role, so if it runs in your family, you are more likely to be at risk. It's also more common in individuals aged 60 and above, as well as those who are obese or smoke. High blood pressure and high cholesterol levels can also elevate your risk factor.
Contact Cornea & Cataract Consultants of Nashville
It's important to see an ophthalmologist when you have this condition. An eye surgeon may be needed to perform eye surgery to help manage the progression of the disease. If you experience blurry vision, particularly in the center of your vision, it's time to schedule an eye exam to determine the underlying issue. If you're in the Nashville, Franklin, or Murfreesboro areas, give us a call today at (615) 320-7200 to make your appointment.
