As you get older, your risk for developing certain eye conditions impacting the health and the quality of your vision increases. One of these conditions is age-related Macular Degeneration, which affects more than 2 million adults in the United States and is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. To protect the ongoing health of your eyes and to preserve your eyesight, it’s important to visit the office Hiawassee for a comprehensive examination. We’ll monitor your eyes and vision and provide guidance as to how to you can take steps towards preventing macular degeneration and preserve your eyesight as you age.
The retina is located at the back of the eyeball and is responsible for transmitting light into signals via the optic nerve to help the brain form a visual image. As the central part of the retina, the macula contains a high concentration of photoreceptors, which means it is integral to the proper functioning of the retina. Macular degeneration occurs when the cells of the macula gradually deteriorate, eventually compromising your eyesight. Advanced cases of macular degeneration result in a profound loss of central vision, while peripheral vision may remain intact. In its early stages, people with macular degeneration may not experience any vision loss or symptoms.
As part of comprehensive eye examination, we’ll perform a visual acuity test and utilize advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate the anatomy and function of your retina. To reduce your risk of vision loss due to age-related macular degeneration or other conditions, it’s important to get a baseline exam at the age of 40 and then comprehensive exams as recommended thereafter. You can also help reduce your risk of developing age-related Macular Degeneration by making the right dietary choices, managing your weight, quitting smoking and wearing sunglasses outside.
At the office of Hiawassee, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality of skilled and compassionate care. For more information on our office and the many services that we provide, give us a call today.
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