The Truth Behind Common Macular Degeneration Myths

February is age-related macular degeneration (AMD) awareness month. AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in people who are 50 years or older in the country. But despite being prevalent among older adults, not everyone is fully aware of the disease, leading to several misconceptions and half-truths that surround it. Today, we lay out the truth behind some of the most common myths surrounding the disease. 

Myth: AMD Can Lead to Blindness if Not Treated

Truth: AMD only contributes to partial vision loss, so this myth isn’t entirely true. AMD is a disease that affects only the macula, which is the most central part of your eye’s retina. The macula is mainly responsible for reading and recognizing faces, so most patients can still navigate while walking even if they have AMD. Of course, you still shouldn’t take this disease lightly, so if you’re over 50, or your family has a history of the disease, make sure to get your eyes checked by an optometrist. 

Myth: Carrots and Other Vitamins Help Lower the Risk of AMD

Truth: Eating carrots or adding any other vitamin supplements to your diet won’t reduce the risk of developing AMD. It won’t even reduce the need for vision correction such as glasses and contact lenses! What our eye doctors recommend, however, is that you let us check your eyes for effective treatment. Doing this helps prevent AMD or any other eye disease from worsening and affecting your daily routine. 

Myth: You’ll Immediately Know You Have AMD

Truth: Early stages of macular degeneration are asymptomatic, which means you won’t notice it at first. By the time the symptoms become visible, it only indicates that the eye disease has already progressed, which can be difficult to treat depending on the condition. The only way to detect macular degeneration in its early stages is by having your eyes checked at a professional eye care center. The specialists have the equipment to identify the early signs in your eyes that indicate macular degeneration as well as provide the right kind of treatment to slow its progression and preserve your eye health!

As one of the most trusted ortho-k centers in the area, we always aim for the best eye care in Insight Vision Center Optometry! You can reach us at (714) 486-3315 or fill out our convenient contact form to set up an appointment. We serve Costa Mesa, Newport Beach and the surrounding areas.