Understanding Macular Degeneration: How it Affects Your Central Vision

Macular degeneration affects central vision because it damages the macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for central vision. The retina is a light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye that converts light into signals that are sent to the brain. The brain then interprets these signals as images. When the macula is damaged, it can cause problems with central vision.

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Understanding Macular Degeneration: How it Affects Your Central Vision in Olympia

Some of the ways that macular degeneration can affect a person's life include:

Difficulty with activities that require good central vision, such as reading, driving, or watching television.
Reduced ability to see fine details, such as the expressions on people's faces or small print in books or on labels.
Increased difficulty with tasks that require good contrast, such as distinguishing between similar shades of color or seeing objects against a cluttered background.
Difficulty adapting to low light conditions, such as when driving at night or in dimly lit rooms.
Increased reliance on glasses or other visual aids to see clearly.
Increased risk of falls and accidents, as reduced vision can make it more difficult to navigate unfamiliar environments or identify potential hazards.
Difficulty with work or hobbies that require good vision, such as painting, crafting, or using a computer.
Social isolation or feelings of frustration or depression due to decreased vision and difficulty participating in activities that were previously enjoyed.
Increased difficulty with tasks that require good depth perception, such as judging distances or navigating stairs

Macular degeneration can also cause emotional and social challenges, as it can lead to decreased independence and difficulty participating in activities that were previously enjoyed. It is important for individuals with macular degeneration to seek support from their family, friends, and healthcare team and to explore adaptive technologies and techniques that can help them maintain their quality of life.

What is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a serious eye condition that affects the central portion of the retina called the macula. The macula is responsible for providing clear, sharp vision, and when it is damaged, it can result in serious vision loss. While AMD is more common in older individuals, it is not a normal part of aging and can occur at any age. If you are experiencing changes in your vision or other symptoms of macular degeneration, it is important to see our eye doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to slow the progression of the condition, prevent vision loss, and preserve remaining vision.

Recognizing the Signs: Common Symptoms of Macular Degeneration

Symptoms of macular degeneration may include:

Distorted or blurry vision
Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
A need for brighter light when reading
Straight lines appearing wavy
Difficulty adapting to changes in lighting
A dark or empty area in the center of vision
Color vision changes

If you have noticed changes in your vision or are experiencing symptoms listed above, it is crucial to seek an evaluation from our eye doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can be crucial in helping to slow the progression of conditions such as macular degeneration and preserve your remaining vision. Don't wait to get the care you need. Contact our practice today at (360) 491-2121 to schedule an eye exam.

Recognizing the Signs: Common Symptoms of Macular Degeneration

Distinguishing Between Dry and Wet Forms of Macular Degeneration

There are two main types of macular degeneration: dry and wet.

Dry macular degeneration is the more common form and is characterized by the presence of yellow deposits called drusen on the retina. While dry macular degeneration can progress to the wet form, it usually progresses more slowly and causes less severe vision loss.

Wet macular degeneration is characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina, which can leak blood and fluid, causing rapid vision loss. Wet macular degeneration is less common but more severe than dry macular degeneration and can cause significant vision loss if left untreated.

Common Questions

Can macular degeneration be cured?

Unfortunately, there currently is no cure for macular degeneration. However, there are treatments available that can slow the progression of the condition and preserve remaining vision. These treatments include medications, laser surgery, and vitamin supplements. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of macular degeneration or have risk factors for the condition, it is important to seek our eye doctor for an evaluation. Our practice is proud to offer advanced eye care in the Olympia area. Please give us a call at (360) 491-2121 to schedule an appointment today.

Is macular degeneration hereditary?

There is a genetic component to macular degeneration, so it is more common in people with a family history of the condition. However, lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor diet, and exposure to UV light also increase the risk of developing macular degeneration. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of macular degeneration or have risk factors for the condition, it is important to schedule an eye exam with our eye doctor in Olympia for an evaluation. Our practice is proud to offer advanced eye care in the Olympia area. Please give us a call at (360) 491-2121 to schedule an appointment today.

Can macular degeneration be prevented?

While there is no sure way to prevent macular degeneration, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include eating a healthy diet rich in leafy greens and fish, wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your eyes from the sun, and not smoking. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of macular degeneration or have risk factors for the condition, it is important to schedule an eye exam with our eye doctor for an evaluation. Our practice is proud to offer advanced eye care in the Olympia area. Please give us a call at (360) 491-2121 to schedule an appointment today.

Understanding Macular Degeneration: How it Affects Your Central Vision

Schedule a medical eye exam for macular degeneration in Olympia

If you are in need of experienced eye care in Olympia, look no further. Our practice is dedicated to providing the best possible care to our patients, and we have a team of highly trained eye doctors who are skilled in helping patients with macular degeneration. With our state-of-the-art technology and advanced diagnostic techniques, we are able to quickly and accurately assess your risk for macular degeneration and recommend appropriate treatment options. Don't delay in taking care of your vision. Contact us today at (360) 491-2121 to schedule an eye exam and start protecting your sight.

Patients with macular degeneration visit our clinic from all over Washington, and we are proud to be a leading provider of medical eye care for patients from Olympia, Lakewood, Tacoma, and Lacey.

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Such a nice optician. My grandson is only 4 and needs glasses. We were so sad, but he explained the issues, and we will follow up as he suggested.

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I had such a good experience with the clinic. Very friendly staff and doctor, did not have to wait for long to be called, and was treated respectfully. Thanks, American Family.

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Family Vision Clinic changed our lives! My daughter was frequently car sick, and she was getting headaches every day, often painful enough that they brought her to tears. We saw a string of doctors and therapists, but we made no progress. Finally, we found Dr. Levi Zurcher and his eye therapist Rain. After ten weeks of eye therapy my daughter no longer gets headaches, and she no longer gets car sick. Daily tears are a thing of the past. I really can’t say enough about this clinic. It was fascinating to watch Dr. Zurcher work. For the first time, someone who knew what they were doing was intently studying my daughter, really trying to figure out all of her eye issues, and his therapist Rain is one of the most patient and lovely people that I’ve ever had the good fortune to meet. We’re finished with eye therapy—yay!—and I have switched to American Family Vision Clinic for all of my family’s other eye health needs.

Lars Wulff

Very professional, yet kind and helpful. They do what they can to make the appointment comfortable. I was running a bit late, I made sure ti call. They were able to switch me with a patient who was already there, they treated me with respect, and helped my son have confidence by getting him the eye care he needed that day. Thank you so much! Would recommend to anyone. It's a blessing that they care enough to work with people who have all different types of insurance from work to state coverage.