Those who are suffering from the low vision effects of age-related macular degeneration should seek the services of a Baltimore low vision doctor as soon as symptoms are noticed. As a major metropolitan area, there is many locations where one can find the office of a Baltimore low vision eye doctor – and chances are there is on in your neighborhood. In addition, your primary care physician or optometrist can refer you to a qualified Baltimore low vision specialist.
Macular degeneration is essentially atrophy of the central region of the retina, known as the macula. As some people get older, these tissues can dry up and literally wither away, causing extreme blurriness of the central vision that is used for such activities as reading, crafts, and the operation of an automobile. While the condition cannot be cured, there are several treatments for macular degeneration that your Balitimore low vision doctor can prescribe. Some of these are simple low vision aids, such as low vision magnifiers. More advanced cases may call for high-tech solutions, such as miniature cameras that are able to use closed-circuit TV in order to project an image onto a large TV or computer monitor.
One of the more common of these low vision aids that a Baltimore low vision eye doctor might use is known as bioptic glasses. These are similar to bifocals; instead of a split lens with two different strengths however, bioptic glasses have miniature telescopes mounted on the frame. By tilting the head only slightly, the macular degeneration patient can look through these telescopes for a clearer image straight ahead.
It is important to understand that the sooner macular degeneration is detected and diagnosed, the more options that are available in terms of treatments for macular degeneration by a Baltimore low vision specialist. Because macular degeneration is caused by weakness of the surrounding blood vessels, your Baltimore low vision doctor may recommend a change of diet in combination with vitamin and mineral supplements. Some of the foods that may help slow the progression of this low vision disorder are spinach, collard greens and swiss chard. These vegetables are rich in Vitamins A and E as well as zinc and lutein – all of which your Baltimore low vision eye doctor can tell you can strengthen the walls of these important vessels.
When you notice that your central vision is becoming blurred, contact a Baltimore low vision specialist [http://www.ialvs.com/our-doctors/district-of-columbia] as soon as possible, or obtain a referral from your optometrist. When it comes to macular degeneration, time is of the essence – and is not on your side. The sooner you can consult with a Baltimore low vision specialist, the more eyesight acuity you will be able to retain.