Macular Degeneration: Preserving Your Central Vision
Macular degeneration can cause loss of central vision and significantly impact your quality of life. At Emerald Point Eye Care, we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support to help you manage this condition and preserve your vision.
Understanding AMD
Macular degeneration is an eye disease that develops with age, so it’s often referred to as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). It affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. AMD can lead to blurred or distorted central vision and even significant vision loss.
Types of Macular Degeneration:
- Dry AMD: The most common form, characterized by the gradual thinning of the macula and yellow deposits beneath the retina.
- Wet AMD: A more advanced and aggressive form, characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina, which can leak fluid and blood, causing rapid vision loss.
How Macular Degeneration Impacts Vision
Macular degeneration causes blurred or distorted central vision, which can impact daily activities.
Central Vision Loss
Difficulty recognizing faces, even up close
Reduced Contrast
Need for brighter light when reading or doing close work
Muted Colors
Decreased intensity or brightness of colors
Blurred Vision
Well-defined blurry spot or blind spot in your field of vision
A Personalized Plan for Macular Health
At Emerald Point Eye Care, we offer a range of comprehensive services to help you manage macular degeneration.
Comprehensive Eye Exams: Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and monitoring of macular degeneration.
Macular Degeneration Testing: Precise testing safeguards your vision. We take detailed images of the macula and retina to monitor changes. We perform tests to detect distortions in your central vision.
Personalized Treatment: We provide tailored treatment plans, aligning with your lifestyle. As needed, we provide referrals to retinal specialists for injections.
Patient Education: Empowering you with knowledge is our priority. We explain tests, treatments, risk factors, and macular degeneration management.
Preserve Your Central Vision
Frequently Asked Questions
- Individuals over age 60
- Those with a family history of macular degeneration
- Smokers
- Individuals with cardiovascular disease
- People with a light eye color
Yes, macular degeneration can run in families. If you have a family history, you are at increased risk.
There is no cure for macular degeneration, but treatments are available to slow its progression and manage symptoms.
Yes, quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and protecting your eyes from UV light can help reduce your risk.
The frequency of eye exams depends on your risk factors and the stage of your condition. Your eye doctor will recommend a schedule that’s right for you.