Macular Degeneration Treatment

Macular Degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss, especially in people over 50. It affects the macula, the central portion of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. At Hashemi Eye Care, we specialize in early diagnosis and advanced treatments for macular degeneration, helping patients maintain their quality of life and independence for as long as possible.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration, also known as Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), is a chronic eye disease that results in blurred or lost central vision. It primarily affects people over the age of 50 and can interfere with everyday activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces.

There are two main types of AMD:

Dry AMD: This is the more common form, where the macula thins over time, causing gradual vision loss.
Wet AMD: In this less common but more severe form, abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina, leading to rapid and severe vision loss.

Symptoms of Macular Degeneration

In the early stages, macular degeneration may not cause noticeable symptoms, making regular eye exams critical for early detection. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include:

Blurred or distorted vision
Difficulty reading or seeing fine details
Dark or empty areas in the center of your vision
Trouble recognizing faces
Difficulty adjusting to low light conditions

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an eye exam. Early detection allows for more effective management and treatment options. Visit our Comprehensive Eye Exam Page to learn more about the importance of early diagnosis.

How Is Macular Degeneration Diagnosed?

At Hashemi Eye Care, we use advanced diagnostic technology to detect macular degeneration, even in its early stages. During a comprehensive eye exam, our doctors will examine your retina and macula using the following techniques:

Dilated Eye Exam: Allows us to look at the retina and macula in detail for signs of damage.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): A non-invasive imaging test that provides a cross-sectional view of the retina, helping us detect thinning or abnormal blood vessels.
Amsler Grid Test: A simple test to check for vision distortion, which can indicate macular degeneration.

Early detection is key to managing macular degeneration and preserving vision. To schedule your screening, visit our Contact Page.

Macular Degeneration Treatment Options

While there is currently no cure for macular degeneration, several treatments can slow its progression and help preserve your vision. The treatment approach depends on whether you have dry or wet AMD.

Dry AMD

Lifestyle Changes: Managing risk factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diet can help slow the progression of dry AMD. A diet rich in leafy greens, fish, and antioxidants like vitamins C and E may support eye health.
AREDS Supplements: Research shows that high doses of specific vitamins and minerals, known as AREDS supplements, can slow the progression of dry AMD in some people.

Wet AMD

Anti-VEGF Injections: For wet AMD, we offer anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections to block the growth of abnormal blood vessels. Common drugs include:

Managing Macular Degeneration

While macular degeneration cannot be reversed, there are steps you can take to manage the condition and maintain your quality of life:

Regular Eye Exams: Frequent check-ups are critical for monitoring the progression of AMD and adjusting treatment as necessary.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, avoid smoking, and exercise regularly to support overall eye health.
Low Vision Aids: Devices such as magnifying glasses, special lenses, and large-print materials can help you continue your daily activities.
Eye Health Supplements: To support overall eye health and slow the progression of conditions like AMD, patients can benefit from supplements such as Restasis, Cequa, and Xiidra, which may help maintain healthy tear production and eye surface integrity.

Visit our Eye Health page for more tips on managing your eye health.

Risk Factors for Macular Degeneration

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing AMD, including:

Age: People over 50 are at greater risk.
Family History: A family history of AMD can increase your likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking: Smoking doubles the risk of AMD.
High Blood Pressure: Uncontrolled blood pressure can contribute to retinal damage.
Diet: A diet low in antioxidants and high in unhealthy fats can accelerate the progression of AMD.

For more information on risk factors and preventive care, visit our Eye Health Page.

Schedule Your Macular Degeneration Screening Today

If you are experiencing symptoms of macular degeneration or are over 50, regular screenings are essential for protecting your vision. Contact us through our Contact Page or call to schedule an appointment and learn more about your personalized treatment options.