Awareness Months that aren’t necessary: Lima Bean Respect Day? How about Talk in an Elevator Day? Yes, these really are actual national awareness days, at least according to the internet. But not all awareness days are…silly. Some of them shine a spotlight on causes and conditions we really do need to know about.
For example, February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month. At Eye Medical Clinic, we care about your eyes. We want you to have the best possible vision you can have and enjoy healthy eyes for a lifetime. So, we’d like to dedicate some space to talking about this sight-stealing condition.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a genetic eye disease associated with aging, where the central portion of the retina, called the macula, deteriorates. AMD is the leading cause of blindness in people over age 50 in the United States. It affects your central vision and can have a negative impact on everyday activities, like driving, reading and even recognizing faces.
Millions of people are diagnosed with AMD each year. A comprehensive eye exam with a board-certified ophthalmologist like the ones here at Eye Medical Clinic is the right place to start if you are concerned about this condition. Our own retina specialist, Dr. Tamer Hadi, is here to guide you through managing this sight-stealing condition.
Two Types of Macular Degeneration
There are two types of AMD: dry and wet. Dry AMD is by far the most common type. Treatment for dry AMD begins with routine eye exams with your eye doctor, especially after age 60, with the goal of early detection. If detected, Dr. Hadi may prescribe a specific mix of zinc and antioxidants to help in slowing the progression of the disease. As a trusted retina specialist, you can trust him with your ongoing care and treatment.
Treatment for the less common wet AMD can include a number of options, including intravitreal injections that inhibit the growth of the abnormal blood vessels that cause the retina to swell and vision to become blurred or distorted. Dr. Hadi has extensive experience in these treatments.
This is important to know: macular degeneration is irreversible, so people who are at risk for age-related eye disorders need to be diligent about their eye care.
The main primary risk factor for AMD is age – the older you are, the greater your risk. Also, people with a family history of AMD are at higher risk, as are women and people of European descent.
Some additional lifestyle factors are also known to increase your risk for AMD:
- Cigarette smoking
- Obesity
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Excessive sun exposure
- Diet deficient in fruits and vegetables
If you are at risk for AMD, please contact us today. By identifying the early signs of macular degeneration, we can help prevent and treat this disease.
See Every Moment
At Eye Medical Clinic, our shared goal is to be the best, most trusted eye care provider in San Jose and beyond. With renowned and experienced vision experts and a highly trained clinical team, we provide the latest state-of-the-art diagnostic tests, treatments and procedures, customized to your needs, lifestyle and vision goals. Schedule an appointment with your Eye Medical Clinic team to learn more about how to protect and preserve your vision today and in the future.
