February is Macular Degeneration Awareness Month, and we at Tempe Eyecare Associates would like to take this opportunity to remind our patients how important regular eye exams are in preventing and slowing the development of this all-too-common eye condition.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects millions worldwide and is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults 50 years and older. It damages the small area at the back of your eye, known as the macula, responsible for central and detailed vision. This can lead to blind spots in your central vision and other visual issues and disturbances. Often, these symptoms develop slowly, and in its early stages, AMD may not present any symptoms. This is where comprehensive eye exams come into play.
Eye Exams and Detection & Treatment of AMD
At Tempe Eyecare Associates, our experienced optometrists use advanced diagnostic tools to examine the health of your retina and identify any early signs of macular degeneration. These state-of-the-art technologies allow for a detailed view of the eye's structures, enabling us to detect changes that may not be apparent during a basic vision screening.
But prevention doesn’t just stop at detection. Our team educates patients about lifestyle factors influencing the risk of developing AMD. Factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, and exposure to UV light can increase your risk over time. We provide personalized advice on modifying these risk factors, emphasizing a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and regular exercise.
For those diagnosed with AMD, we offer a range of management strategies. This includes monitoring for any vision changes, prescribing medications that can slow the progression of the disease, and providing advice to help patients make the most of their remaining vision. Our commitment is to ensure that each patient receives the care they need to maintain their vision and independence.
Request Your Eye Exam Today!
Left unchecked, AMD can result in significant vision loss, making reading, driving, and recognizing faces difficult or impossible. Fortunately, our clinic offers the latest cutting-edge optometric technology to ensure early detection and effective treatment so that we can significantly slow the progression of AMD, preserving vision and quality of life for years to come. Request your comprehensive eye exam at our Tempe eye clinic and take a proactive step towards preserving your vision today!