Macular Degeneration

Macular Degeneration is the leading cause of severe vision loss in adults over age 50. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 1.8 million people have AMD and another 7.3 million are at substantial risk for vision loss from Macular Degeneration.

This eye disease occurs when there are changes to the macula, a small portion of the retina that is located on the inside back layer of the eye.  Macular Degeneration is a loss of central vision that can occur in two forms: "dry" and "wet."

Most people with macular degeneration have the dry form, and is treated with “natural vitamins” using what eye physicians call the ARED’s formula.  Your eye physician will recommend specific type of vitamins to take. Don’t make the mistake of self-treating macular degeneration with synthetic vitamins.

The severe form wet form of macular degeneration may respond to laser procedures and medication injections, if diagnosed and treated properly.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of AMD

In its early stages, the following signs of macular degeneration can go unnoticed.

• Gradual loss of ability to see objects clearly.
• Shape of objects appears distorted.
• Straight lines look wavy or crooked.
• Loss of clear color vision.
• A dark or empty area in the center of vision.

If you experience any of the above signs or symptoms, contact your eye physician immediately for a comprehensive eye examination. Your Hyde Eye Care physician will perform a variety of tests to determine if you have macular degeneration or any other eye health problems.

Central vision that is lost to macular degeneration cannot be restored.  Prevention is the key.         Hyde Eye care does the genetic testing to let you know early is you are at risk for macular degeneration.

Treatment of AMD

With "dry" macular degeneration, the tissue of the macula gradually becomes thin and the nerves die and stops working properly. There is no cure for macular degeneration, and any loss in central vision cannot be restored. Catching it early and prevention is the key and taking nutritional supplements can slow vision loss.