Early Warning Signs of Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in people who are over the age of 50. Statistics estimate that about 14 million people in America have macular degeneration. That number is set to increase with more people aging day after day.

Vision loss with macular degeneration can happen in months or over several years, depending on the form and harshness of the illness. You have a better chance of slowing the progression of the condition if you catch the symptoms early and receive treatment immediately.

So, What Exactly Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is an eye illness that leads to gradual loss of vision. It occurs when the macula weakens and wanes over time.

The macula (central portion of the eye) helps you see objects in detail. It helps distinguish colors, read fine prints, or recognize people’s faces. But with age, the macula wears away, causing severe problems with your eyesight. Macular degeneration causes loss of central vision, but as your peripheral or side vision remains intact, you are not likely to go completely blind.

Forms of Macular Degeneration

Dry macular degeneration - Where the macula weakens over the years and tiny masses of protein (drusen) develop. The outcome is that you lose your direct line of eyesight slowly as the drusen get bigger.

Wet macular degeneration - Where irregular blood vessels form inside your eye and drip fluid and blood into the macula. As a result, the macula swells and distorts your central vision.

Early Warning Signs of Macular Degeneration

Early macular degeneration does not have any signs. The disease progresses over time and without discomfort. That explains why most people cannot tell they have the condition. Some people have no signs of early macular degeneration, while others get minor symptoms. These include:

Blurriness – you may have trouble recognizing faces, reading fine print, or driving
Seeing blind spots in your direct line of vision
Straight lines look crooked
Colors appear washed out, faded, or less radiant
Trouble seeing inside dimly lit rooms or in low lighting
Needing brighter lighting when doing close tasks

Often, ophthalmologists can diagnose macular degeneration before the signs become observable. During your regular eye exam, your eye doctor may spot drusen in your eye or notice a color change in your macula.

That said, if you experience any of the early warning signs mentioned, see your eye doctor right away. Macular degeneration is not reversible, but early medical care can slow the disease or make it less harsh.

Are You at Risk for Macular Degeneration?

Certain factors may put you at risk for macular degeneration. The risk is greater if you:

Are 50 or older
Have a family or genetic history of macular degeneration
Smoke
Are Caucasian
Are overweight
Have heart disease

For more on the early warning signs of macular degeneration, contact Hunter Family Vision at our office in Leawood or Prairie Village, Kansas. You can call (913) 681-8555 or (913) 381-2323 to book an appointment today.