Are You at Risk for Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is an eye condition that can happen to people as they age, but the risk of having the disease is higher in particular individuals compared to others. Here at our Lincoln eye care practice, Dr. Forgey does not only diagnose and provide macular degeneration treatment, but we also educate people on what causes the condition and if they have a high risk of developing macular degeneration.

Aging. Age-related macular degeneration is a type of the condition that may occur as we age. Significant vision loss that comes with the disease can occur in less than 1 percent of individuals in their 60s and 15 percent or more among those in their 90s.

Heredity. Recent studies have shown that variants of specific genes exist in individuals who have macular degeneration. This shows that heredity can be a factor in the development of the condition, including how severe it would become.

Obesity and sedentary lifestyle. Overweight individuals have twice the risk of acquiring the condition than people with normal body weight. Moreover, people who exercise regularly have lesser risks of developing advanced forms of macular degeneration as compared to inactive individuals.

High blood pressure. As found out in a study made by Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Science, the development of macular degeneration in some patients may be related to hypertension or high blood pressure.

Smoking. A major risk factor for macular degeneration, and in most chronic diseases, there is a strong link between macular degeneration and smoking, leading to severe vision loss.

It is important to undergo regular eye exams, most especially if you have a high risk of developing eye problems such as macular degeneration. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Forgey, you may reach us at (402) 483-2323 or fill out this online contact form. We look forward to meeting you here at our Lincoln office!