It’s February again, which means it’s time to mark another Macular Degeneration Awareness Month — when we turn our focus to one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide. At Visions Optometry, we believe in the power of awareness and the importance of community support in tackling eye health and vision issues. Our dedicated eye care team is committed to helping every community member understand and combat the early signs of macular degeneration regardless of financial considerations.
Macular degeneration primarily affects older adults. It attacks the central part of the retina (known as the macula), the part of your eye responsible for sharp, central vision. This can affect a person’s ability to perform crucial activities like reading and driving. The early signs of this condition can often be subtle, but early detection can help slow its progression significantly.
One of the first indicators of macular degeneration is a slight blurring of central vision. This blurring may worsen or make adapting to low light levels increasingly difficult. Another warning sign is the distortion of straight lines, which may appear wavy or bent. Additionally, you may experience a change in the perception of colors or a dark, blurry area in the center of your vision. If you notice any of these changes, it’s important to schedule an appointment with our Sacramento eye care team immediately so that we can assess the issue and find solutions to prevent vision loss.
Early Detection and Lifestyle Choices: Keys to Managing Macular Degeneration
While there is currently no cure for macular degeneration, there are ways to prevent its onset and slow its progression. Our team at Visions Optometry suggests the following:
Regular Eye Exams: Regular check-ups, especially if you're over 50, can help detect and treat macular degeneration early, increasing the likelihood that treatment can be effective in reducing or stopping the progression of the disease.
Follow a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in leafy greens, fish, and nuts can help protect your eyes. Nutrients like lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids are especially beneficial and can significantly reduce your risk of macular degeneration.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of macular degeneration significantly. Quitting smoking can greatly reduce this risk.
Exercise Regularly: Maintaining a healthy weight and blood pressure through exercise can help reduce the risk by reducing the strain on the blood vessels in your eyes that go to your retina.
Wear Sunglasses When Outside: Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection to help reduce long-term damage to your eyes.
At Visions Optometry, we understand the importance of a proactive approach to eye health. By recognizing the early signs and taking preventative measures, we can work together to maintain your visual clarity and eye health. Remember, your eyesight is precious, and we are here to support you every step of the way!