Macular degeneration is a common eye condition affecting over 200,000 people in the United States annually. Macular degeneration causes blurred vision and blind spots in your field of vision. While macular degeneration is prevalent in older adults, people of all ages and ethnicities have been diagnosed with this progressive eye disorder.

There are two specific types of macular degeneration. Wet macular degeneration occurs when blood vessels begin to leak inside the retina. This type of macular degeneration often leads to rapidly deteriorating vision and makes it difficult for you to read, drive, and recognize people's faces.

The second type of macular degeneration is called dry macular degeneration. This type of macular degeneration occurs when retina cells die within the macula, and new cells are not regenerated. This condition also leads to significant vision loss.

Many risk factors are associated with this condition, including advanced age, smoking, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and obesity. Genetics and poor diet can also play a role. People with Caucasian ethnicities are at an elevated risk of developing macular degeneration.

Macular degeneration is often first detected through an eye exam. After your physician gathers information about your health history and symptoms, they will perform a series of vision tests to make a diagnosis. These tests usually include a dilated eye exam, an eyechart test, and an ophthalmoscopy.

While there is no cure for either type of macular degeneration, there are several things you can do in order to slow its progression. If you are eventually diagnosed with dry macular degeneration, you may be a candidate for surgical intervention. During surgery, you may have a telescopic lens inserted in your eye to enhance your field of vision.

Surgical interventions are not an option if you are diagnosed with wet macular degeneration. However, there are medications available that can help slow this condition's progression. Additional interventions include photodynamic therapy and photocoagulation.

Low vision rehabilitation is often recommended regardless of what type of macular degeneration you have. This therapy involves working with an occupational therapist to help you adjust to limited vision. These skills become especially helpful as the disease progresses and can maximize the vision abilities you still have.

There is no known cure for either type of macular degeneration. Many people do not experience severe vision loss for many years and go on to live normal, productive lives. If you receive an early diagnosis of this condition, there are many things you can do in order to slow its progression. These steps may include losing weight, managing your blood pressure, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet.