Macular Degeneration

Our ophthalmologist recommends regular eye exams to watch for macular degeneration and other eye conditions. Regular eye exams are important for everyone, regardless of age, but they become even more important the older you get. Dry eye, cataracts, and macular degeneration can come up during regular eye exams. The earlier macular degeneration is detected, the better. Early on there are very few noticeable signs, but this condition can lead to serious vision problems. Our ophthalmologist at Eye Care Specialists of Florida in Kissimmee can help our patients work through this condition.

The Types of Macular Degeneration

There is a form of macular degeneration that affects children and young adults. This is called Stargardt, or juvenile macular degeneration. This form is rare, and most people suffer from age-related macular degeneration. There are two main types of age-related macular degeneration, dry form, and a wet form. The dry form occurs when drusen, yellow deposits, form in the macula. As these deposits get bigger, your vision gets worse. The wet form occurs when blood vessels underneath the macula leak fluid into the retina, which distorts your vision.

The Symptoms of Macular Degeneration

Most people do not experience any symptoms early on with this disease. However, your vision will gradually get worse. There may be white, black, or blurry areas at the center of your vision, straight lines may look distorted, and there can be a change in the perception of color.

Diagnosing Macular Degeneration

Our doctor will watch for this condition during a routine eye exam. This is one of the many important reasons to make eye exams a priority. The eye doctor will examine the retina and look for yellow deposits. Our ophthalmologist may also ask you to look at an Amsler grid. This is a pattern of straight lines. If the lines look wavy or like some are missing, this may be a sign of macular degeneration.

Treating Macular Degeneration

There is no cure, but this condition can be treated and the disease can be slowed. Possible treatments may include anti-angiogenic drugs, laser therapy, photodynamic laser therapy, vitamins, and low vision aids.

Eye Care Treatment in Kissimmee

Schedule your annual eye exam with our ophthalmologist at Eye Care Specialists of Florida in Kissimmee. Call us at (407) 483-0328 with any concerns you may have regarding macular degeneration, cataract surgery, dry eye, or other eye-related conditions.