What Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration? l Key-Whitman Eye Center

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a serious eye condition that affects millions of people over the age of 60, and it is the leading cause of vision loss and impairment worldwide. AMD can have destructive effects on vision, but with proper management and treatment, many people are able to prevent further deterioration and maintain their quality of life. AMD affects your central vision, which is necessary for reading, watching TV and other activities that involve seeing small details, such as recognizing faces.

Unfortunately, at present, there is no cure for Age-Related Macular Degeneration. In this blog, we will discuss what causes AMD, some symptoms, and some treatments offered by our team of ophthalmologists.

What Causes Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

AMD is caused when the macula, an oval-shaped pigmented area in the center of your retina, starts to deteriorate. Even though doctors and scientists have not yet identified one exact reason why AMD develops, they do know that it results from a complex interaction between environmental, genetic, lifestyle and medical factors. Exposure to sunlight can increase risk of developing the condition, as can smoking, high blood pressure and an unhealthy diet high in sugar and low in antioxidants.

Treatments for Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Dallas, TX

While there is no cure for Age-Related Macular Degeneration our team at Key-Whitman Eye Center offers many forms of early treatment that can help slow the disease from progressing. Some of the treatments include:

• Anti-angiogenic drugs – This works on wet AMD, which is categorized by growth of abnormal blood vessels from the choroid under the macula. These medications, like Avastin, are injected to stop new blood vessels from forming. These injections can revive some vision that was previously lost.

• Laser therapy – This is also a treatment that works on wet AMD, these lasers destroy growing abnormal blood vessels.

• AREDS2 vitamins – These help to reduce the risk of vision loss while experiencing dry AMD. Dry AMD is categorized by yellow deposits within the macula called drusen. Drusen leads to dimming, distortion, and other forms of vision loss.

• Low vision aids – Magnification can help those suffering from AMD to regain independence that is lost when their vision decreases. This is achieved with specific lenses and electronic systems.

For all of your eye care needs and questions, contact Key-Whitman Eye Center at (214) 220-3937! We are the right choice for you and your family’s eyes, proudly serving Dallas, TX and surrounding areas.