What Is Macular Degeneration And Who Is At Risk For It?

Macular degeneration can affect anyone, but some people are more prone to it than others. To find out if you're at risk, and what to look for, you need to know what this condition is and who typically experiences it. If you're in the Odessa, TX, area and in need of ophthalmology services to help with macular degeneration or other conditions, Southwest Retina Eye Center is here to help.

What Causes Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration happens when the macula, which is part of the retina and located at the very back of the eye, starts to break down and deteriorate. This can happen slowly (the dry kind of macular degeneration) or quickly (the wet kind of macular degeneration). In either case, the result is that you lose a lot of your central vision, which may become dark, cloudy, or distorted. Peripheral vision often remains good.

Who Is Most Likely to Experience This Condition?

Age is one of the most common factors for the dry kind of macular degeneration, which can happen to anyone, but is more frequently seen in older persons. Family history, smoking, and other factors can all contribute. The wet kind of macular degeneration is less likely to be based on age, and can occur in anyone, sometimes without any warning. You may need to work with an eye surgeon for treatment.

What Kinds of Treatments are Available?

Wet macular degeneration is treatable through prescription medications that are injected monthly. This can often stop any further vision loss, and may reverse some of the damage. Dry macular degeneration doesn't have any treatment, although some types of vitamins may slow the progression of the disease. The goal with macular degeneration is to stop additional loss of vision, or learn to manage the progressive changes.

Work with an Ophthalmologist Today

If you're in the Odessa, TX, area and have questions or concerns about macular degeneration or other ophthalmology issues, Southwest Retina Eye Center is here for you. Contact our ophthalmologist and staff today to work with an eye surgeon you can trust.