Macular Degeneration

Up to 11 million Americans have macular degeneration, an age-related condition that causes low vision and vision loss. At Vistasite Eye Care in the Elmhurst neighborhood of Queens, New York, skilled optometrists and the team offer complete care for macular degeneration, including advanced diagnostics and access to cutting-edge treatment. Call the office to receive treatment for macular degeneration, or book a consultation online today.

What is macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is an age-related eye problem that causes damage to the macula –– a part of the retina responsible for your central vision. Macular degeneration commonly affects people 50 and older. In fact, it’s the number one cause of blindness in senior citizens.

What are the types of macular degeneration?

At Vistasite Eye Care, the team treats both types of macular degeneration:

Dry macular degeneration (AMD)

Dry AMD causes your macula to become weak because of the natural aging process. As the macula wears down, clumps of protein (drusen) grow, causing problems with your central vision.

Wet macular degeneration (AMD)

Wet AMD causes new blood vessels to form underneath the retina. As the vessels grow, they begin leaking blood and other fluids, causing permanent damage to the macula. 

Who is at risk of macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration affects people from all backgrounds, but several factors may increase your risk, including:

• Being 50 or older
• Having high blood pressure
• Smoke cigarettes
• Have a family history of AMD

You’re also more likely to develop macular degeneration if you struggle to maintain a healthy weight.

How is macular degeneration diagnosed?

Your Vistasite Eye Care provider reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes an eye exam. During the exam, your provider has you look at an Amsler grid –– a chart that helps identify blurry, distorted, or blank spots in your vision. They also examine your eyes with a special lens, checking for damage to your retina and macula.

If these measures don’t provide enough information, the team might also dilate your pupils with special eye drops, making it easier to see the structures at the back of your eyes.

How is macular degeneration treated?

Treatment of macular degeneration depends on your symptoms and the type. The team at Vistasite Eye Care might recommend:

Dry AMD

There’s no cure for dry AMD, but healthy lifestyle changes can slow its progression. The team might recommend losing weight, eating a healthier diet, and taking nutritional supplements, such as Vitamin C and E, to help bolster your eyesight.

Wet AMD

If you have wet AMD, the team prescribes anti-VEGF drugs. These medications reduce the number of abnormal blood vessels in your retina. Your provider administers anti-VEGF drugs via injection.

Call Vistasite Eye Care to learn more about the treatment options for macular degeneration, or request one using the online booking feature today.