Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is a progressive eye condition that requires continuous care to minimize symptoms and prevent vision loss. Our retina specialists have the experience and expertise to diagnose and treat it to preserve your vision.
What is macular degeneration?
Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration or AMD, is an eye condition that affects central vision. There are two types: dry and wet macular degeneration.
Dry macular degeneration occurs when parts of the retina begin to thin and tiny clumps of protein form on the retina. Wet macular degeneration occurs when new blood vessels grow underneath the retina. These abnormal vessels may leak, which can scar the retina. Wet AMD is less common but more advanced.
Those most at risk are people over fifty, people who smoke, and people with a family history of macular degeneration. Early detection and treatment is the best way to avoid permanent vision loss.
How is it diagnosed?
Your eye doctor can diagnose AMD during a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Dilating drops allow the doctor to view the light-sensitive retina at the back of the eye and look for irregularities. If changes suggest macular degeneration, additional testing such as detailed retinal imaging may be performed.
It is vital to tell your eye doctor about any vision changes since your last visit. You may be asked to look at an Amsler grid, which helps reveal missing or distorted parts of your visual field. If macular degeneration is diagnosed, a treatment plan is developed right away to halt its progression.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary from person to person. The most common are:
- Blurred or fuzzy central vision
- Straight lines that appear wavy or distorted
- A dark or empty spot in the center of your vision
- Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
- Colors that seem less vivid
How is it treated?
Although macular degeneration is a serious, vision-threatening condition, it can be treated. The best way to avoid vision loss is early detection, which is one of the many reasons routine comprehensive eye exams matter.
Currently there is no treatment that reverses dry macular degeneration; your eye doctor will monitor your eyes closely for changes. For wet macular degeneration, anti-VEGF medication delivered by injection into the eye halts the growth of abnormal blood vessels and slows leakage. To keep the condition well controlled, injections are given on a regular schedule, and regular follow-up visits are essential.
Videos: understanding your condition and treatment
Patient-education videos from the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Captions are available with the CC button.
Request an appointment
Are you experiencing symptoms of macular degeneration? Schedule an appointment today.