Archive for year: 2017

Macular degeneration is an eye disease that primarily impacts individuals who are in their fifties and sixties— however, it can affect individuals of all ages. As the leading cause of vision loss, macular degeneration is an eye disease whose cause is unknown. There are certain things that we do know about this eye disease, however. This article will discuss three things that you should be aware of about macular degeneration. Read on to learn more.

1. There Is No Cure

Unfortunately, at this time, there is no cure for macular degeneration, but there are several treatment options. For instance, if you start to show symptoms and signs of macular degeneration your doctor at Papale Eye Center will likely use a combination of vitamins and minerals to help slow the progression. If it gets worse or if it is more advanced, you can always get laser surgery to help restore your vision and prevent you from losing more of your eyesight.

2. It’s Genetic

Recently, there has been a lot of scientific evidence that points to the fact that macular degeneration is, in fact, genetic. Specifically, studies point to the fact that about fifty percent of patients who have macular degeneration got it through genetics. So, if you have a family history of this eye disease, make sure that you are getting frequent testing by the doctors at Papale Eye Center.

3. It Doesn’t Cause Blindness

As a common misconception about macular degeneration, it won’t cause you to go blind. It will, however, skew your vision and cause you to have certain blind spots which usually means that you will be diagnosed as “legally blind.” So although you will still be able to make out certain objects and images when you have macular degeneration, you likely won’t be able to do things like drive.

During your annual eye examination, one of our eye doctors can check you for macular degeneration. If you would like to schedule your examination, contact the doctors at Papale Eye Center today!