Your eyes may be small, but that doesn’t mean they are invisible to diseases and injuries. While your eyes are always at risk of different conditions, the risk becomes even more prominent as you grow old. One of the conditions you should be aware of is macular degeneration, commonly known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). At North Bay Optometric Vision Center serving Rohnert Park, CA, an optometrist on our optometry team can treat this condition, but here is what you need to know to help prevent AMD from compromising your vision.
What is AMD?
It’s an age-related eye condition that damages the macula — a part in the retina responsible for central vision, color perception, and fine details we see. There are two types of AMD, namely:
- Wet AMD: This type occurs when blood vessels grow behind the retina. Because these retinal vessels are weak, they can leak blood and fluids into the retina, causing damage.
- Dry AMD: This is the most common type of AMD, accounting for many of AMD cases. It occurs when protein deposits accumulate on the retina, damaging it. While older people usually have these proteins, when they increase in size and number, that is usually the first sign of AMD.
Can AMD happen in one eye?
Yes, it’s possible to have AMD in one eye, but as the disease progresses, it may not be long before the second eye is affected. This is one reason why it is important to visit an eye doctor on our optometry team early.
What are the symptoms of AMD?
While symptoms depend on whether you have wet or dry AMD, generally, you may experience the symptoms below if you have AMD:
- Blurry spot in your central vision
- The need for more light to read
- Difficulty driving at night
- Straight lines appearing wavy
Since most of the AMD symptoms manifest when the disease has progressed, it is important to schedule yearly eye exams if you are a senior. This way, an eye doctor on our optometry team can catch AMD at its early stages to halt its progression.
How is AMD treated?
Currently, there is no cure for AMD, but it can be managed for a better quality of life. Dry AMD can be managed through nutritional supplements and using vision aids. An optometrist on our optometry team can usually help manage wet AMD using injections, vision aids, and or recommending photodynamic therapy — a procedure to destroy abnormal retinal blood vessels.
Get Macular Degeneration Treatment from an Optometrist on Oru Optometry Team
Looking for an optometrist in Rohnert Park, CA? Book an appointment with us at North Bay Optometric Vision Center for our eye care services. An eye doctor on our optometry team can diagnose and manage macular degeneration and other ocular diseases. Call us at (707) 584-7294.