Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a common eye disorder in persons over the age of 50. It can cause blurred vision or a reduction in your central vision. Macular degeneration is caused by thinning of the macula. At North Bay Eye Associates in Healdsburg, Petaluma, Sonoma, and Santa Rosa, CA, we will diagnose and provide treatment to slow the progression of macular degeneration.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

What Is Macular Degeneration?

It isn't exactly known what causes macular degeneration. The condition can develop in only one eye first and then affect both eyes as time passes. The blurred vision can affect your ability to read, drive, and recognize faces, but you may not lose all of your sight. It is usually the central vision that is affected, and your peripheral vision will remain intact.

The Symptoms

The symptoms of macular degeneration appear gradually and are not painful. You may see straight lines as bent, have a low central vision, need a brighter light for up-close work, or have difficulty adjusting to low light levels, such as entering a parking garage on a sunny day. Printed words may appear blurry, and colors may seem dull instead of bright. You may also experience a blurry spot or a blind spot in your field of vision.

Risk Factors

There are several factors that can increase your risk for macular degeneration. The primary factors include having a history of it in your family and being 50 or older. Macular degeneration is more common in smokers, Caucasians, individuals struggling with obesity, or those who have cardiovascular disease.

Treatment Plans

Macular Degeneration Treatment

There is no cure for this disease, but with a plan of action, we can slow the progression for you to sustain a better quality of life. Visit one of our optometrists at least once per year to catch the disorder as early as possible. You may also need to manage your other medical conditions by quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise. Choosing a diet with fruits and vegetables will provide extra antioxidants to slow the progression of your macular degeneration.

Looking for More Information About Macular Degeneration?

Check out our Macular Degeneration frequently asked questions page to learn information like the different types of AMD, what causes macular degeneration, and the symptoms of macular degeneration.

Macular Degeneration FAQ's

Trust Our Macular Degeneration Experts

If you have a change in your vision or a family history of macular degeneration, visit one of our optometrists for an eye exam right away. Our team at North Bay Eye Associates are experts in this field. Make an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices in Healdsburg, Petaluma, Sonoma, or Santa Rosa, CA. Call our team today at one of our offices or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.