JASPER AVE 780‑488‑0944 | CAPILANO 780‑469‑2020 | MAYFIELD 780‑486‑2020 | LEDUC 780‑986‑2020 | WESTLOCK 780‑349‑3702
MACULAR
DEGENERATION
Learn more about macular degeneration
Macular Degeneration in Edmonton
Macular degeneration refers to the deterioration of the macula, the small central area of the retina in your eye which controls visual acuity. It is the most common cause of blindness. The early stages of macular degeneration does not affect vision but if the disease progresses, you may experience wavy, blurred or a complete loss of vision.
Behind the retina there is another tissue layer which is partly responsible for feeding the retina. Over time this layer can weaken and develop holes and cracks which starves the portions of the retina directly in front of it. This starved retina eventually loses its sensitivity to light and central vision slowly deteriorates. This is known as the “dry form” of macular degeneration. As time goes on, weak blood vessels grow through these cracks and bleed, causing large areas of scarring in the retina. This is known as the “wet form” of macular degeneration. Genetics, age, nutrition, smoking and exposure to the sun may cause this condition. Connect with Optometrists Clinic Inc in Edmonton for more details.
Types of Macular Degeneration
There are two types of macular degeneration and they are as follows:
Dry Macular Degeneration
The dry type affects almost 80-90 per cent of individuals suffering from age-related macular degeneration. If allowed to progress, this can deteriorate your vision.
Wet Macular Degeneration
Wet macular degeneration affects approximately 10-15 per cent of people, and most cases account for severe vision loss from this disease. The abnormal blood vessels under the retina tend to break and bleed, in turn damaging the macula.
Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
You are likely to see signs of macular degeneration and some of the symptoms include:
Causes of Macular Degeneration
Age is a common risk factor behind macular degeneration and it may occur during middle age. Other reasons to get this disease include smoking, obesity and high blood pressure.
Contact Us Today
If you are suffering from macular degeneration, get in touch with us and we will assist you.