Macular Degeneration
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss in adults over age 50. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 1.8 million people have AMD and another 7.3 million are at substantial risk for vision loss from AMD. This eye disease occurs when there are changes to the macula, a small portion of the retina responsible for our central and color vision. AMD occurs in two forms: "dry" (atrophic) and "wet" (exudative).
Most people with macular degeneration have the dry form, for which there is no known treatment but progression may be slowed with specific nutritional supplements. A balanced diet including dark green leafy vegetables and UV protection are also important. The less common wet form occurs when new blood vessels grow and leak fluid into the macular tissue. Wet AMD may respond to injections of medication into the eye if diagnosed and treated early. Although there are no cures for AMD these treatments are designed to preserve central vision for as long as possible.
Symptoms of AMD may include a gradual or sudden loss of central vision. Objects may appear wavy or distorted and color vision may be affected.
In both cases of AMD patients are followed with a retinal exam by our doctors as well as a scan of the macula called an optical coherence tomography (OCT) which takes a three-dimensional scan of the retina.
A comprehensive eye examination allows us to diagnose AMD or other conditions that can affect the quality of your vision.
