In association with the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the doctors and staff of Brooks Eye Associates want to remind you and your family the importance of scheduling and attending annual eye exams to detect and prevent blindness from Age-Related Macular Degeneration.
February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration Month, so we’re encouraging all those over age 60, and who have had a blur or blind spot in the center of their vision to schedule a comprehensive eye evaluation this month to determine if Age-Related Macular Degeneration could be affecting your vision.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss for those 60 years of age and older in the United States. In fact, 10-15 million individuals have AMD…but only 10% have “wet” AMD – a case where abnormal blood vessels break underneath the retina, bleed and leak fluid, causing the retina to grow towards the macula. However, most cases are the dry type – where small, white or yellow spots, called drusen, form on the retina and beneath the macula, causing it to deteriorate over time.
Regardless of the type, Age-Related Macular Degeneration is a gradual, progressive, painless deterioration of the macula, which is the center of the retina that gives us our detailed vision; the vision that gives us the ability to do see fine details when we do activities such as read, drive, watch TV, and attend to crafts and other hobbies. The retina is like the film in a camera – it records what we see – however, the macula is what gives those images the crisp, fine detail. So, if the camera is blurry, the image isn’t going to very good!
Although AMD is the leading cause of blindness amongst older Americans, new treatments have dramatically changed the course of this disease, making it more manageable than ever before. Brooks Eye Associates has reserved special times throughout the month for patients who are experiencing “fuzzy” vision, to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Our evaluations also include a thorough evaluation of your eyes for other signs of retinal diseases such as cataracts, dry eye, and other refractive errors.
Brooks Eye Associates is proud to be listed as one of the few comprehensive eye centers in the state of Texas to offer patients the benefits of a board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Dain Brooks. Along with his expertise, and our new, top of the line equipment, we have set out to preserve and prolong your vision in the fight against Age-Related Macular Degeneration.
Annual comprehensive evaluations are covered under most insurance plans, so save your vision through early diagnosis and treatment. Call our offices today at (972) 736-9347 to schedule your evaluation!
