Macular Degeneration

Macular Degeneration Treatment at Your Kissimmee Eye Doctor

Macular degeneration is a progressive disease that affects the central portion of the retina, the light-sensitive portion at the very back of your eye. The retina contains thousands of tiny cells that pick up the light that creates images. The central portion of the retina is called the macula, and it contains the highest concentration of these light-sensitive cells.

macular disease

In macular degeneration, damage to the macula results in a loss of central vision and can be very difficult or even impossible to see objects that are in plain sight. People with severe vision loss due to macular degeneration are unable to read, watch TV or do other daily activities, and they can’t even recognize faces.

There are two forms of macular degeneration: the most common form called the “dry” form, and a less common form called “wet” macular degeneration. The dry form can progress over many years, causing progressively worse central vision loss; the wet form is rapid and requires emergency treatment. Because macular degeneration may cause very few symptoms in its early stages, seeing a Kissimmee eye doctor for regular eye exams is critically important for ensuring the disease is diagnosed early.

What causes macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration occurs as a result of changes in the tiny blood vessels in and around the retina. Over time, these vessels can become damaged, which means the macula won’t receive the oxygen and nutrients it needs for optimal function. In wet macular degeneration, new, weak blood vessels form and break, leaking blood into the retina and sometimes causing swelling or edema. Scar tissue that forms as a result of macular degeneration can cause the retina to pull away from the eye, a very serious condition called retinal detachment.

Macular degeneration becomes more common with age (which is why it’s sometimes called age-related macular degeneration or AMD). Other factors that increase your risk for developing the disease include:

    • smoking
    • high blood pressure
    • high cholesterol
    • leading a sedentary lifestyle

What are the symptoms of macular degeneration?

People with macular degeneration typically begin to notice a gradual dimming or blurriness in their central vision as vision loss progresses. Eventually, these areas of blurriness can become dark “blobs” or “holes” in the central visual field. In the wet form of the disease, these effects can occur very rapidly, and they may be accompanied by bright flashes of light.

How is macular degeneration treated?

There is no cure for macular degeneration, but there are some things you and your eye doctor can do to slow the vision loss the disease can cause. In addition to lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and eating a healthier diet, studies show special supplements may help slow vision loss by optimizing eye health. Your eye doctor will be able to determine if supplements could be a good choice for you.

Make An Appointment With Our Eye Doctor in Kissimmee Today!

Having routine eye exams is an important part of diagnosing macular degeneration early so steps can be taken to control the disease and the vision loss it causes. As a top-rated eye doctor in Kissimmee, Dr. Saira Choudhri offers the most advanced treatment options for patients with macular degeneration, customizing every treatment plan to help patients slow the disease progression for better eye health and optimal vision. Take care of your eyes. Call Eye Care Specialists Of Florida at (407) 483-0328 and schedule an eye exam today.

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