How Macular Degeneration Can Affect Your Vision

Your vision is important. It allows you to read, drive, and keep a job. However, there are many conditions that can develop with time that may put your vision at risk. This includes conditions such as macular degeneration. Understanding this condition will help you spot the early signs so you can intervene and slow the progression. Drs. John A. Stefano and Michael Bert of Shenandoah LASIK and Cataract Center encourage you to continue reading to better understand this condition and the symptoms often seen to ensure you catch it early enough for successful treatment.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a chronic disease that affects the central portion of the retina, or macula. It causes vision loss by damaging the eye’s photoreceptors, specialized cells that detect and convert light images into electrical signals for transmission to the brain for processing. This damage can result in a loss of visual acuity, blind spots, blurred vision, difficulty recognizing faces or reading, and other visual impairments.

What Can Be Done About Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration currently has no cure and can be treated only with medications and lifestyle changes to slow its progression. However, early detection may help prevent further deterioration of sight. There is also ongoing research into innovative therapies, such as gene therapy, that may offer hope for more effective treatment in the future. Advances in this field of medicine are essential as they pave the way for solutions and a possible cure.

What Can I Do if I Suspect I Am Experiencing Macular Degeneration?

Getting an early diagnosis of macular degeneration can significantly improve the outcome as certain treatments may be employed during early onset to delay the permanent changes that can occur. If you suspect that you have macular degeneration or other vision concerns, call Shenandoah LASIK and Cataract Center of Winchester, VA, today. Call 540-722-6200 to request an appointment with Drs. John A. Stefano and Michael Bert to discuss your issues with a team of experienced professionals. Dr. John A. Stefano has over two decades of experience providing care for patients in and around the community with vision and eye conditions.