Macular degeneration is a disease that affects the retina, a light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye. When the retina is damaged, central vision is lost, especially the ability to see fine details. At Ideal Family Eye Care of Chicago, IL, we offer a pioneering approach to testing for macular degeneration developed by Arctic Medical Laboratories. Please read on to learn more.
Why is macular degeneration a serious eye disease?
This condition causes gradual damage to the central part of the retina, which is responsible for clear central vision. Left untreated, macular degeneration can lead to complete blindness. Because it is a disease of the aging eye, macular degeneration is more often found in older individuals. However, it can occur at any age, even in young people.
Who is more likely to develop age-related macular degeneration (AMD)?
The truth is, that anyone can develop macular degeneration as they age. However, research by the National Eye Institute has found that the disease affects white Americans the most. In fact, of the thousands of optometry patients studied who developed AMD, white Americans accounted for 89% of the cases. Also, women of any race accounted for 65% of those cases. Other risk factors can include a person’s height or weight, or a family history of macular degeneration. Smoking also increases the risk of developing the disease.
How does the Arctic Macular Risk Test work?
Science has made great strides in identifying the genetic factors that contribute to the development of macular degeneration. Arctic’s test uses your DNA to map out those genes to determine your risk of developing the disease. The resulting report gives a timeline of risk assessment, so you can understand how your eyesight may deteriorate over a two, five, and 10-year period.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Optometrist in Chicago, IL
At Ideal Family Eye Care, our optometrist uses the Arctic Macular Risk Test to arrive at a personalized clinical diagnosis for our patients. This tool helps us to identify the best treatment options and start treatment early to prevent vision loss. Contact us today if you’re looking for an optometry specialist in Chicago, IL.