The macula is a part of the retina in the back of the eye that ensures that our central vision is clear and sharp.
When Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD for short) occurs, loss of this vision clarity occurs. You might experience anything from a blurry, gray or distorted area to a blind spot in the center of vision.
AMD Treatment – Old Bridge, NJ
AMD is the number-one cause of vision loss in the US. Typically, macular degeneration doesn’t cause total blindness because it doesn’t affect the peripheral vision. But the vision problems it does cause can still be debilitating.
At Atlantic Medical Eye Care in Old Bridge, New Jersey, Dr. Robert Scharfman specializes in detecting and treating macular degeneration. There are a variety of treatments for most patients with macular degeneration.
AMD Risk Factors
There are a number of possible risk factors for macular degeneration, including:
- genetics
- smoking
- sunlight exposure
- high blood pressure
- obesity
- lack of exercise
- diet (high in unsaturated fats and carbohydrates)
Two Types of AMD
There are two kinds of age-related macular degeneration:
- wet (neovascular/exudative)
- dry (non-neovascular)
Vision loss with dry AMD is slower and often less severe than with wet AMD. About 10-15% of people with AMD have the wet form.
Detecting Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Regular eye exams are highly recommended to detect macular degeneration early on. The earlier this condition is caught, the better your chances of preventing permanent vision loss.
Could You Have AMD?
If you have a blind spot in the center of your vision, or blurry, gray or distorted vision, you should schedule an eye exam immediately.