What Is Macular Degeneration?

Marys, PA 15857 814-781-3435 www.phhealthcare.org/eyecareMacular Degeneration Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of blindness and the number of people impacted by the disease is increasing. [...] The eye surgeons at Penn Highlands Eye Center treat thousands of patients each year and can help you monitor your condition and maintain a more normal level of sight when macular degeneration begins to impair your vision. [...] Macular degeneration causes progressive macular damage resulting in loss of central vision. [...] SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS A decrease in vision is not an inevitable consequence of getting older. [...] Early detection is crucial because any loss of vision cannot be reversed. [...] As you would expect by the name, age is a major risk factor for AMD. [...] It mostly occurs in people over the age of 60 but some people experience macular degeneration earlier. [...] Other risk factors include: • Smoking - Smokers have twice the risk of developing AMD. • Race. [...] • Family history and genetics - People with a family history of the disease are at a much higher risk of suffering from AMD. [...] Macular degeneration is a progressive disease. Current treatments focus on preserving as much vision as possible and slowing the progression of the disease. It’s important to talk to your doctor and have an understanding about the stage and type of the disease, as treatment options depend on these factors. There are several treatment options that can help but there is presently no cure for ma