Are You at Risk for Macular Degeneration?

If you’re over 65 and of European descent, you could be at risk for macular degeneration, the leading cause of age-related vision loss. Lifestyle choices can help to slow the disease’s progression and possibly even prevent it if initiated early enough, according to Dr. Michael Caruso of Atlantic Eye Center.
What is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is an age-related disease that causes damage to the macula, the ultra-sensitive part of your retina. There are two forms of macular degeneration: wet and dry. Most people have the dry form, which is caused by the aging and thinning of the tissues of the macular. Vision loss is gradual. Ten percent of people will have the wet form, where abnormal blood vessels form underneath the retina and leak blood and fluid. Vision loss is rapid and severe.
The condition may be barely noticeable in its early stages. But gradually, the disease will progress, making it difficult or impossible to do some activities such as reading or threading a needle.
People with macular degeneration may be classified as legally blind. But macular degeneration does not usually result in total blindness. Sufferers of the disease may have enough peripheral vision to be able to take care of their daily needs.
Know the Risk Factors
The exact causes of macular degeneration are unknown. However, researchers have discovered several risk factors:
•     Smoking cigarettes
•     Excessive exposure to sunlight
•     Being of European descent/Caucasian
•     Increased age
•     High blood pressure and/or cardiovascular disease
•     A family history of macular degeneration
•     Being female
Steps to Lower Your Risk
No cure is available for macular degeneration. However, people can take steps to limit their risk:  
1.   Don’t smoke.
2.   Wear sunglasses or a brimmed hat to limit UV exposure.
3.   Control your blood pressure.
4.   Exercise regularly.
5.   Eat a healthy diet.
6.   Limit your fat consumption.
7.   Schedule annual eye exams.
At Atlantic Eye Center, macular degeneration evaluations are part of each annual examination. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.DoctorMichaelCaruso.com or call (609) 465-1616.