It also runs in families. In its early stages, eyesight may be blurred, reading difficult and straight lines will look distorted. It's important to detect these changes as early as possible when treatment is most beneficial. In some cases, laser treatment can halt vision loss by sealing the leaking blood vessels. This can be performed on an outpatient basis.
Most people have little or no discomfort and can resume normal activities immediately afterward.
The slow, irreversible nature of macular degeneration is why it's so important for anyone over 50 to test their eyesight regularly. Your ophthalmologist can detect the early warning signs of macular degeneration during your eye exam. You can also help in its detection by testing your vision at home each day using an Amsler grid. You are at higher risk if you have light-colored eyes or a family history of the disease. We believe the disease may be slowed by protecting your eyes from bright sunlight, taking a multivitamin with 15-30 mg. of zinc, and not smoking.