Macular Degeneration

The Vision Place Offers Management of Macular Degeneration

Aging causes change in the eyes that could lead to a number of eye diseases. Macular degeneration causes deterioration in the “macula,” an important part of the retina at the back of the eyes. It is a progressive condition that can gradually lead to vision loss if let untreated. At The Vision Place in San Antonio, TX, we offer detection and management of eye diseases of aging, such as macular degeneration.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration, often called AMD, is a progressive eye disease that affects individuals over the age of 60. The disease causes thinning of the macula, which is necessary for clarity in the central field of vision. The effect occurs gradually, with increasing visual difficulties.

Forms of AMD

AMD occurs in two different forms of the disease, the “dry” form, which comprises about 85 percent of cases, and the “wet” form, which is less common and more serious. In the “dry” form, clumps of a protein called “drusen” collect on the macula, causing distortion of images and impaired vision. In the “wet” form, the eye develops new blood vessels that bleed and leak fluid, causing damage to the light-sensing cells of the retina.

Symptoms of AMD

Individuals with AMD may experience dark, blurry areas in the field of vision or whiteout areas. Blurred vision is common, with greater difficulty in reading and the need for more effective light sources. Lines may begin to appear wavy. Some individuals become very sensitive to glare.

Causes of AMD

AMD is more common in whites and females. The disease appears to have a genetic component. Smoking increases the risk of developing AMD, and obesity also increases the risk. Having high blood pressure is linked with higher rates of AMD, and some medications are also implicated with its development.

Treatment of AMD

Currently, there is no approved treatment for the dry form of AMD. However, some research suggests that supplementing the diet with omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin E and vitamin C can be helpful in slowing the disease. For the wet form of AMD, your eye doctor may recommend laser surgery to control bleeding and leakage of fluid. Medications and photodynamic treatments are also available.

Contact The Vision Place in San Antonio, TX!

Contact our optometrist at The Vision Place in San Antonio to make an appointment for an assessment of your eyes. Call our office today at 210-764-1113 to find out more information.