Macular Degeneration: Are You at Risk for This Common Cause of Vision Loss?

Age-related macular degeneration is a common eye disease that most often affects people in late middle age and beyond. As many as 20 million Americans live with the condition. 

Daniel Tepper, MD, and the team at Wicker Park Eye Center in Chicago, Illinois, are committed to providing up-to-date, clear guidance on eye health issues, including macular degeneration. Here, they look at risk factors and how to identify the condition as early as possible. 

What’s macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration results from damage to the cells in your macula, the central portion of your retina. These cells gather information about your central vision, the field of vision directly in front of you. 

When these cells begin to deteriorate, your eyes can no longer properly process the incoming sensory data in your central field of vision. You may see perfectly to the sides but have trouble focusing on things and people directly in front of you. 

Age-related macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss, which is why it helps to know the risk factors and warning signs of this common eye health problem. Wet macular degeneration is a different type that develops rapidly and is far less common. 

Some risk factors are out of your control

People with a family history of age-related macular degeneration have a higher risk of developing the disease themselves. Your age also comes into play, with a rising risk level as you move through your retirement years. 

As many as 1 in 3 Americans over 75 has macular degeneration. 

Women are more likely than men to develop age-related macular degeneration. Caucasians have a higher risk than people of other races. 

Some risks are within your control

For younger people, the good news is that you can reduce your risk of age-related macular degeneration by making healthy choices now. Start by choosing foods rich in antioxidants and low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Managing your blood sugar also helps. 

Smoking dramatically increases the risk of age-related macular degeneration and many other eye health issues. If you smoke, quitting can boost your chances of seeing clearly well into late adulthood. 

Obesity and leading a sedentary lifestyle are also linked to age-related macular degeneration. Reaching a healthy weight and staying active not only support your eye health but also lower your risk of numerous chronic health conditions. 

An eye exam can reveal signs of macular degeneration

Changes in your vision, specifically in your central vision, may indicate macular degeneration. The best way to determine if you have the condition is through a professional eye exam. 

Annual eye exams help your provider identify problems early. If you show signs of macular degeneration, early treatment can slow the progression of the disease and help you maintain a high quality of life. 

To schedule your visit, contact Wicker Park Eye Center by phone or online today.