Macular Degeneration Month

February has been designated Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Awareness Month by the association Prevent Blindness to bring attention to the dangers of this eye disease. Despite the impact that AMD can have on your vision, too few people take measures to protect themselves from this disease. Routine eye exams from Primary Eyecare & Optical of Meridian act as a defensive measure against eye diseases like AMD that can permanently impair your vision. Here’s what you should know about AMD symptoms and treatment.

How Serious Is AMD?

AMD is an age-related eye disease affecting approximately 9 million individuals in the U.S. alone. Symptoms are so gradual you may not know you have this condition until damage has been done to your sight. Your eye doctor, however, can detect early warning signs in an eye exam. By detecting this disease early on, your eye doctor in Meridian can help you slow down its progression to prevent further vision loss. Left untreated, the disease can lead to blindness.

Understanding AMD

AMD affects the macula of your eye, the part responsible for central vision, which makes it possible for you to see details around you clearly. Good central vision is key to enjoying a high quality of life as it makes it easier for you to perform daily tasks like reading, writing, driving, etc.

There are two types of AMD: wet and dry. Dry AMD produces blind spots in the center of your vision, blurring your sight. Wet AMD causes blood vessels to leak into the macula of your eye, distorting your vision. Straight lines, for example, may appear curvy.

There’s no cure for AMD, but your Meridian optometrist can recommend treatment options that can help preserve your sight. A healthy diet and AREDS vitamins are two ways to help slow down the progression of this disease. Treatments vary depending on the severity of your symptoms.

See Your Meridian Optometrist to Test for AMD

Don’t take unnecessary chances with your vision. Schedule an eye checkup to see if you have age-related macular degeneration by contacting Primary Eyecare & Optical of Meridian at 601-485-2020 today.