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Macular degeneration symptoms can be subtle at first, but it's important to know how to identify them. To get to know more about macular degeneration symptoms, as well as how to spot them, we first need to know what macular degeneration is.
Read on to find out more about the condition as well as what its symptoms and causes are.
What is Macular Degeneration?
Also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), it is a progressive eye sight disease that affects the macula, a small part of the retina responsible for central vision. The macula is located in the center of the retina and is responsible for sharp, detailed, and color vision. Macular degeneration causes the macula to deteriorate over time, leading to vision loss in the central part of the visual field.
Macular degeneration is a progressive disease, which means that it gets worse over time. However, early signs of macular degeneration and treatment or ways to improve eyesight can help slow the progression of the disease and preserve vision.
What Causes Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is caused by a combination of factors such as age, genetics, smoking, high blood pressure, poor diet, obesity, and sun exposure. Certain medical conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and high cholesterol also increase the risk of developing this condition.
While these factors can contribute to the progression of the disease, it's important to note that not everyone who has them will develop macular degeneration. Consult your doctor if you're concerned about how at risk you are, as they can recommend lifestyle changes and other strategies to help reduce the chances of developing this disease.
Macular Degeneration Symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms of macular degeneration are:
- Blurry Vision: Blurry or distorted vision is one of the most common symptoms of macular degeneration. You may notice that objects appear less clear or fuzzy, and you may have difficulty recognizing faces or reading small print.
- Dark or Empty Areas in Your Vision: Another common macular degeneration symptom is the appearance of dark or empty areas in your field of vision. These areas may appear in the center of your visual field and make it difficult to see fine details.
- Difficulty Seeing in Low Light: People with macular degeneration symptoms may also have difficulty seeing in low light conditions, such as at night or in dimly lit rooms. This can make it hard to navigate your surroundings, read, or watch TV.
- Distorted or Wavy Vision: Macular degeneration can cause straight lines to appear wavy or distorted. This can make it difficult to read or see fine details.
- Decreased Color Perception: Some people with macular degeneration symptoms may experience a decrease in color perception. Colors may appear less vibrant or faded.
- Difficulty Adjusting to Bright Light: People with macular degeneration symptoms may also have difficulty adjusting to bright light. This can cause discomfort and make it difficult to see when going outside or entering a bright room.
Tests for Diagnosing Macular Degeneration Symptoms
1. Dilated Eye Exam - During a dilated eye exam, your eye doctor will use eye drops to dilate your pupils and examine the back of your eye, including the retina and the macula. This exam allows your eye doctor to look for signs of macular degeneration, such as drusen (small yellow or white deposits in the macula) or other changes to the retina.
2. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) - OCT is a non-invasive imaging test that uses light waves to create a detailed cross-sectional image of the retina. This test can detect changes in the thickness of the retina, the presence of fluid or swelling in the macula, and other signs of macular degeneration.
3. Amsler Grid Test - The Amsler grid is a simple eye test that can help detect changes in central vision. Your eye doctor may ask you to look at an Amsler grid while covering one eye at a time and report any changes in the lines or distortions of the grid. This test can help detect early signs of macular degeneration symptoms.
4. Fluorescein Angiography - This is an imaging test that uses a special dye and a camera to take pictures of the blood vessels in the retina. This test can help identify abnormal blood vessels or leaking blood vessels that can contribute to macular degeneration.
5. Genetic Testing - In some cases, genetic testing may be used to help diagnose macular degeneration, particularly in people with a family history of the disease. Genetic testing can identify specific genetic mutations that are associated with an increased risk of developing macular degeneration.
Macular degeneration is a serious eye condition that can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. It is important to be aware of macular degeneration symptoms and to seek medical attention if you experience any changes in your vision.
Regular eye exams are also an essential part of maintaining good eye health, as they can help identify early signs of the disease and allow for early treatment. By taking steps to protect your eyes and staying vigilant for any changes in your vision, you can help ensure the best possible outcome if you are diagnosed with macular degeneration.
