Macular Degeneration Treatment
What is Macular Degeneration?
The macula is a part of the retina in the back of the eye that ensures that our central vision is clear and sharp. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs when the arteries that nourish the retina harden. Deprived of nutrients, the retinal tissues begin to weaken and die, causing vision loss. Patients may experience anything from a blurry, gray or distorted area to a blind spot in the center of vision.
Who is at Risk of Getting Macular Degeneration?
AMD is the number-one cause of vision loss in the U.S. Macular degeneration doesn't cause total blindness because it doesn't affect the peripheral vision. Possible risk factors include genetics, age, diet, smoking and sunlight exposure.
What are the Symptoms of Macular Degeneration?
Symptoms of macular degeneration include:
- A gradual loss of ability to see objects clearly
- A gradual loss of color vision
- Distorted or blurry vision
- A dark or empty area appearing in the center of vision
What are the Different Types of AMD?
Wet AMD
There are two kinds of AMD: wet (neovascular/exudative) and dry (non-neovascular). About 10-15% of people with AMD have the wet form. "Neovascular" means "new vessels." Accordingly, wet AMD occurs when new blood vessels grow into the retina as the eye attempts to compensate for the blocked arteries. These new vessels are very fragile, and often leak blood and fluid between the layers of the retina. Not only does this leakage distort vision, but when the blood dries, scar tissue forms on the retina as well. This creates a dark spot in the patient's vision.
Dry AMD
Dry AMD is much more common than wet AMD. Patients with this type of macular degeneration do not experience new vessel growth. Instead, symptoms include thinning of the retina, loss of retinal pigment, and the formation of small, round particles inside the retina called drusen. Vision loss with dry AMD is slower and often less severe than with wet AMD.
Macular Degeneration Treatment
Recent developments in ophthalmology have revolutionized the treatment of macular degeneration with the benefits of in-clinic therapies such as injections and lasers. We are now able to save the vision of individuals with advanced macular degeneration.
Marion Eye Centers provides these cutting-edge treatments at many offices throughout Southern Illinois, and Southeast Missouri.
Can Macular Degeneration Be Prevented?
Regular eye exams are highly recommended to detect macular degeneration early and prevent permanent vision loss.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about AMD treatment options, please call us at 1-(800)-344-7058 for our Ilinois locations or 1-(877)-269-4545 for our Missouri locations.
If you would like more information about Macular Degeneration Treatment, or to schedule an appointment, feel free to complete our convenient online contact form. For locations, click here to find a center near you.
