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Age Related Macular Degeneration: Questions to Ask Your Eye Care Professional

Feb 1, 2017

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So, you have been diagnosed, or you are concerned about Age Related Macular Degeneration. There is a ton of information online, but how do you know what you can trust? As always, you should direct any serious questions about your eyes to a professional. Contact Peconic Bay Medical Center to chat with a doctor and alleviate your concern. Here are a few questions that you may want to ask about Age Related Macular Degeneration.

Ask Your Doctor About Age Related Macular Degeneration

What is Macular Degeneration anyway? Don’t be afraid to ask for more information. Whether you have been diagnosed or it is just a concern, it is important to learn more, so you have a better understanding of how to take care of your eyesight.

  • Is there any way to reduce my risk of macular degeneration? Assuming you do not yet have the disease, quitting smoking, keeping blood pressure at a safe level, eating and exercising right and reducing excessive sun exposure can help prevent it. Your general practitioner may have advice to help with this too.
  • Can I slow the progression of the disease? – In many cases, if the disease is caught early, there may be ways to slow or even end further progression. These early interventions are something that your doctor can help you understand.
  • What type of macular degeneration do I have? – There are two main types, wet and dry. The progression of the disease and treatment varies from one type to the other.
  • How will my macular degeneration be treated? Treatment is an important concern for anyone facing this disease. Luckily, there are many options today. Discussing your concerns with the doctor is key.
  • Will I lose my vision? – Obviously, this is important to you. While macular degeneration can impair eyesight, it seldom causes complete blindness. By discussing the issue with your doctor and beginning a course of treatment; you can often avoid the most severe loss of sight.
  • What can I do at home to help? – Your doctor may have some suggestions for supplements to take or guidance to help you live a healthier life. Find out what you can do to be proactive about this ailment.

When you get the answers to these questions, you should have a better idea of what to expect and how to handle your future when it comes to your macular degeneration.