One of Laredo’s leading ophthalmologists and a Harvard-trained retina specialist, Dr. Hochman takes care of many patients with macular degeneration. The disease affects more than 10 million Americans and causes more permanent central vision loss than cataracts and glaucoma combined. While macular degeneration is incurable, there are steps that can be taken to prevent it, and treatments are available to slow its progression.
Macular degeneration most commonly affects people over the age of 60. Age, smoking, genetics, diet, blood pressure, and weight have been found to be risk factors. There are two stages of age-related macular degeneration. Vision loss is rarely experienced in the first stage, but there are signs that can be seen, and a diagnosis can be made at this early stage. This is one reason why regular eye exams are important, especially for those with risk factors.
Dr. Hochman has a variety of treatments available to help slow the progression of this disease, and there are some helpful steps that can be taken at home as well. Preventative measures can be started now in order to reduce risk in the future. Protecting eyes from ultraviolet (UV) light, avoiding smoking, exercising, and eating a healthy, balanced diet are all helpful, healthful measures to prevent the disease. Office treatments such as vitamins for intermediate and advanced disease, as well as medicine injections for more advanced stages, are all available. In select advanced cases, even technologically advanced surgical treatments are considered.
As a leading provider of general, medical, and surgical eye care in Laredo, Dr. Hochman provides comprehensive care, through a team of eye physicians and staff that are committed to excellence in patient care. Dr. Michael A. Hochman is located at 5313 McPherson Road.