Macular Degeneration
Macular Degeneration Overview
Macular Degeneration
DESCRIPTION
There are two types of macular degeneration: wet and dry. Wet macular degeneration occurs when abnormal blood vessels form under the macula (a part of the eye) and leak blood and fluids. It is often characterized by blurred vision and rapid deterioration of the macula. Dry macular degeneration occurs with the gradual breakdown of light-sensitive cells in your eyes.
SYMPTOMS
- For wet degeneration: blurred vision, dull vision, visual distortion, rapid deterioration
- For dry degeneration: “straight lines suddenly appearing crooked”, need for brighter light, blurriness, dull vision, difficulty recognizing faces, haziness
TREATMENT
There is no cure, but in some cases treatment may slow the progression of vision loss. Your Henry Eye Clinic eye specialist may prescribe medication that is placed inside the eye, to slow changes to your eyes and vision.
PREVENTION
You can help slow or stop both of the types of degeneration by maintaining a healthy weight with regular exercise and eating plenty of fruit, vegetables, and fish. You should also avoid smoking (and second-hand smoke), and protect your eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses or a hat. Have questions or need to schedule an appointment? Call our office at 479.442.5227 or fill out a contact form here.