Question: I have a family history of Macular Degeneration. What steps do I need to take to determine if I have this condition too?
Answer: It is a very good idea to be tested for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), especially if there is a family history of it. If diagnosed early, there are treatment options that can potentially reduce the risk of progression and perhaps decrease its severity.AMD is the leading cause of vision loss for people over 60. It affects a small central portion of the retina called the macula that is responsible for detailed vision tasks. There are two forms of AMD; wet and dry. Both types of AMD can lead to vision loss in varying degrees although the treatments are different. The type of macular degeneration can be determined during an eye examination.
Your Optometrist will discuss family history, risk factors, and perform a detailed examination which often includes OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) imaging that can detect subtle macular changes. We provide these tests at our clinic during comprehensive eye exams, and have the technologies to detect early signs of AMD. Based on your examination and risk factors, treatments including sun protection and research backed supplements may be recommended to reduce the risk of progression of AMD.