At Center For Sight, We Heart Vision <3
What’s the most important love-centered holiday in February? Perhaps for many of you, Valentine’s Day popped into mind, but we’re here to tell you it’s Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Month. Learn more information about this vision-threatening condition below so we can all show extra care for our eyes this month.
If you relate to any of the following, let the talented, board-certified ophthalmologists at Center For Sight help you by booking in our appointment hub.
AMD and Low Vision Awareness, A Fitting Pair
AMD Awareness Month overlaps with Low Vision Awareness Month which, as far as vision observances are concerned, is a fitting pairing because AMD is one of many conditions that causes low vision. In fact, AMD is one of the leading causes of blindness in the U.S. Associated with getting older, AMD causes the deterioration of the macula, which is an important part of the retina. By definition, low vision is the result of any condition causing permanent vision loss that cannot be corrected by glasses or any medical or surgical procedure. It also includes disorders like glaucoma and diabetic eye disease.
Cozy Up To Some Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Facts
AMD affects central vision and activities related to it, such as driving, reading, and recognizing faces. Like with many conditions causing low vision, preventing AMD damage is about knowing if you are at risk and being diligent about eye health.
Those at highest risk include:
- Age 50+
- A family history of AMD
- Caucasian, lighter eyes
- Smoking
- Obesity and high blood pressure
Both the more common dry AMD and the rarer wet AMD exhibit few symptoms before dramatic vision loss occurs. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Blurred vision
- Inability to see dim light
- Seeing spots
- Partial vision loss
Don’t Forget Other Low Vision Conditions
Besides AMD, low vision can be caused by glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, or eye injury. Glaucoma is an eye condition that causes an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) and risks damage to the optic nerve. Diabetic eye disease represents a group of conditions that a person with diabetes is at risk or more at risk for. The most common among this group is diabetic retinopathy, a disease that damages the retina due to complications with the blood vessels nourishing it.
No matter the low vision condition you may face, those at risk should stick to comprehensive exams as recommended by their doctor. People who struggle with irreversible low vision can also struggle with their independence, hobbies, reading, and socializing. That’s why it’s so vital to preserve the vision you have by working with a trusted doctor.
The Best Way to Celebrate 20/Happy-Vision This February
Our complete adoration of vision is why the team at Center For Sight spends all our energy bringing 20/Happy vision to as many people as we can with comprehensive eye care. If you’re due for a check-up or have any questions about changes in your vision, make an appointment at one of our four conveniently located clinics in the Las Vegas area.
