What is macular degeneration, and when should I be checked for it?
Macular degeneration is the second leading cause of blindness in the U.S., and the leading cause in people over 65. It is a progressive disorder of the central retina (area of fine, central vision), typically resulting in decreased central vision, which is crucial for reading and driving. Risk factors include: age (over 60 years old), high blood pressure, heart disease, smoking, family history, and exposure to UV radiation (sunlight). Everyone over the age of 60, and those having one or more risk factors should be checked once every year.
