Macular Degeneration seems to be becoming increasingly more common these days, but what is it, really? Put into simpler words, it’s the loss of eyesight over time — a steady, chronic loss. You’re not going to wake up one day with all vision gone, but over time, things get steadily blurrier. However, the main reason that it’s becoming such a common diagnosis is that it can be looked for at any time.
Even if your eyesight is fine and considered perfect, doctors can find macular degeneration in the beginning stages during an eye exam. This isn’t meant to be alarmist, either. It’s meant to keep you informed and aware. Think of it this way: wouldn’t you rather know in the before/beginning stages rather than in the middle of it? That’s the kind of help your doctors provide. As there is no cure for macular degeneration currently, though this may change, discovery and prevention is the key.
What can be done to help prevent the spread of degeneration? For one, your personal health — not smoking is extremely important, and in addition to that, so is eating well and exercising. Some doctors may give you a list of specific foods to focus on, but there’s no real need to narrow a diet when almost every vegetable out there can be beneficial in some way. Perhaps more importantly is making sure that you continue to talk to your eye doctor about any issues you may start facing, and being open about your health history.
Macular degeneration may be on the upwards trend, but there’s really no need to panic about it. It can be a scary thought, especially if you’re diagnosed with it when you have perfect health, but your doctor is only looking out for you.
