About Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a common eye condition that affects the macula, a small area in the center of the retina that is responsible for central vision.

Macular degeneration is a common eye condition that affects the macula, a small area in the center of the retina that is responsible for central vision. Macular degeneration can cause vision loss, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces.

Macular degeneration is also known as Age-Related Macular Degeneration, or AMD, because it affects people as they age. Your risk for AMD increases as you age, and it is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss among people over the age of 65.There are two main types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. Dry macular degeneration is the most common form, and it occurs when the macula becomes thin. Wet macular degeneration, sometimes called neovascular AMD, is less common, but tends to cause more rapid vision loss than dry AMD. In wet AMD, abnormal blood vessels grow under your retina. Dry AMD can progress to become wet AMD.

There is no cure for macular degeneration, but there are treatment options that can slow down the progression of the condition and sometimes improve your vision. These treatments include nutritional supplements, medications, and laser surgery. If you are over the age of 65, it is important to have regular eye exams and follow the treatment plan recommended by your eye doctor. Patients with macular degeneration can retain their vision and maintain good quality of life by working with their doctors on a treatment plan.

Network Eye offers the latest treatment for macular degeneration in a convenient clinic in Tampa, Florida. Patients appreciate our friendly team members, getting easy access to our clinic, and building relationships with our doctors over time.

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FAQ

WHAT IS AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION (AMD)?

Macular degeneration is a condition in which the center of your retina, called the macula, wears down due to the natural aging process.

Macular degeneration doesn’t always cause blindness, but it can lead to potentially serious vision problems. If at any point you notice changes in your vision, contact the team at Network Eye.

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF MACULAR DEGENERATION?

There are two types of age-related macular degeneration:

Wet form

Wet macular degeneration occurs when blood vessels grow beneath your macula. Over time, these blood vessels leak blood and other fluids, resulting in distorted vision. About 10% of people with macular degeneration have a wet form.

There are two types of age-related macular degeneration:

Dry form

Dry macular degeneration causes yellow deposits, called drusen, to form inside your macula. As more and more drusen collect, it distorts and dims your vision. Most people with macular degeneration experience dry form.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF MACULAR DEGENERATION?

Common symptoms of macular degeneration include blurry or cloudy vision, dark areas in the center of your vision, and different color perceptions. If you experience any of these issues, book an appointment at Network Eye.

HOW DO DOCTORS DIAGNOSE MACULAR DEGENERATION?

A routine eye screening is the easiest way to diagnose macular degeneration. During the screening, your Network Eye provider uses special lenses to view your retina.

Your provider might also have you look at an Amsler grid, a pattern that looks similar to a checkerboard. If some of the lines appear wavy to you, or you notice that some of the lines are missing, it may indicate macular degeneration.

HOW IS MACULAR DEGENERATION TREATED?

There's no cure for macular degeneration, but there are treatment methods that may slow its progression. The team at Network Eye might recommend:

Anti-angiogenesis drugs (medicines that block the creation of blood vessels)
Laser therapy to destroy abnormal blood vessels
Photodynamic laser therapy
Low vision aids (like special lenses or viewing screens)
Submacular surgery (a procedure that removes abnormal blood vessels)

Following a comprehensive eye exam and a discussion of your symptoms, the team at Network Eye can develop a custom care plan.

To learn more about the treatment options for macular degeneration, make an appointment at Network Eye by calling the office today or clicking the online booking feature.