As we age, many things related to our physical health will change. That includes our vision. One of the most common age-related vision problems many Americans struggle with is macular degeneration, an eye disease that damages the macula. For those unaware, the macula is the part of the retina that controls central vision. A damaged macula can result in blurred vision or a blind spot in one’s central vision. Both issues can make reading, driving, distinguishing colors, recognizing faces, and other tasks requiring sharp central visual acuity challenging.
How Common Is Macular Degeneration?
According to a study published by the Cleveland Clinic, an estimated 20 million adults have macular degeneration. The study further revealed that men and women aged 55 and older are at a heightened risk of developing the disease. Additional risk factors for developing macular degeneration include the following:
• Being obese or overweight
• Consuming a diet high in saturated fats
• A family history of macular degeneration
• Hypertension
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Head injuries
Compared to other racial groups, Caucasians have the highest chance of developing macular degeneration, especially those with blue eyes.
Treating Macular Degeneration
As of the writing of this article, there is no known cure for macular degeneration. However, there are ways to slow the progression of the disease. One way involves taking nutritional supplements containing vitamins C and E, lutein, zinc, and copper. The following prescription medications can also help people with maculardegeneration maintain their vision:
• Aflibercept
• Bevacizumab
• Brolucizumab
• Faricimab-svoa
• Ranibizumab
Discover More Ways To Preserve Your Vision
Age and many other factors can open the door to macular degeneration. But there is some good news. Early diagnosis and treatment can stop the vision-robbing disease from progressing faster than it otherwise would. To learn more about treatments for macular degeneration, contact Retinal Eyecare Associates at retinaleyecare.com. We are a premier eye clinic specializing in treating macular degeneration in Boca Raton, FL.
