Macular Degeneration
This is a writing sample from Scripted writer Valerie M
Age-related macular degeneration, also known as AMD or ARMD, is an eye condition that leads to a reduction in vision. Some people may not initially realize that they have the condition, but AMD's symptoms gradually worsen over time. AMD is often age-related, with older people experiencing the condition at much higher rates. Macular degeneration is a common cause of blindness, affecting over 6 million people globally.
Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
Blurred vision, faded colors, loss of contrast, difficulty recognizing faces, and difficulty performing visual activities are just some symptoms caused by macular degeneration. Risk factors for this condition include aging, smoking, high cholesterol, hypertension, obesity, atherosclerosis, and genetic predispositions.
Prevention of Macular Degeneration
In order to prevent AMD, a doctor will likely advise you to cultivate a diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Vitamins C and E will help fight macular degeneration.
Types of Macular Degeneration
There are different stages of AMD, including:
- Early AMD, a typically asymptomatic condition that is hard to detect.
- Intermediate AMD, which could lead to some vision loss.
- Late AMD, which results in vision loss and retinal damage.
- Dry AMD, a slow-progressing type of macular degeneration with minimal symptoms.
- Atrophic AMD, a condition that causes a loss of retinal cells.
- Wet AMD, a type of AMD that results in abnormal blood vessels within the eyes.
Treatment for Macular Degeneration
Your doctor may prescribe contact lenses or other low vision aids to help with vision loss. Your optometrist may recommend that you change your diet to something that is high in zinc, copper, and vitamins E and C. Anti-angiogenic drugs are sometimes prescribed to block the leaking of damaged blood vessels. Macular degeneration can also be treated with laser therapy or photodynamic therapy.
If you're interested in optometry treatment for macular degeneration, Bruce Coward & Associates can help. We serve Belleville, Brighton, Trenton, and surrounding areas. Our clinic specializes in preventive care as well as treatment programs. To learn more about our services, contact us at one of our locations.
Written by:
