When you think about vision loss, do you picture cataracts and glaucoma? If so, you might be surprised to find that in the United States, Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the primary cause of vision loss in adults over the age of 65. According to experts, it affects nearly 11 million Americans–a higher rate of vision loss than glaucoma and cataracts combined. Skilled ophthalmologist Russell Micah Levine, MD, works with patients of all ages to identify and treat such retinal illnesses. For expert care for macular degeneration in Hell’s Kitchen, New York, call the office or request an appointment online today.

What Exactly Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an illness that impacts one’s central vision, mainly in older adults. It is uncommon for anyone to go completely blind as a result of it. However, AMD could render it difficult to drive, read, or perform other tasks that require comprehensive vision.

AMD develops whenever the macula is injured. The macula is a little spot in the retina’s center that allows you to see in the center of your range of view. As the macula becomes less functional, central vision deteriorates.

What Are The Different Types Of Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Dry AMD and wet AMD are the two kinds of macular degeneration. Understanding the differences between the two is critical as one is significantly more severe than the other.

Dry AMD is the most common type of macular degeneration. It develops whenever tiny yellow deposits build on the retina. The existence of these deposits (referred to as drusen) can lead to the degeneration of the eye.

On the other hand, approximately 10% of individuals with dry AMD will progress to wet AMD. The latter could wreak even more havoc on your eyesight by causing blind spots and irreversibly obstructing your central vision.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Every person’s symptoms might differ slightly. Nonetheless, among the most prevalent symptoms include:

·         Hazy or blurred vision

·         Seeing straight lines as wavy

·         Colors appear paler than usual

·         Some objects appear smaller

·         A dark, empty region or a blind spot in the vision’s center

·         Rapid deterioration of central vision

Tiny yellow deposits (drusen) within the retina are one of the most prevalent early indicators of AMD. It could indicate that the eye is in danger of developing a more serious wet AMD. Your specialist at Russell Micah Levine, MD, will perform a comprehensive eye exam to determine the state of your condition.

How To Diagnose Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

The signs and symptoms of AMD can be mistaken for those of other eye diseases. Thus, it is necessary to consult an eye care professional for a precise diagnosis.

Besides a complete medical records check and eye examination, your specialist may perform the following diagnostic tests:

·         Pupil dilation

·         Visual acuity

·         Fluorescein angiography

·         Amsler grid

How To Treat Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

The treatment you receive will be dictated by your symptoms, age, and overall health. It will also be dependent on the severity of your condition.

Care for wet AMD generally entails shots of medicine into the eye. It helps prevent the aberrant blood vessels underneath the macula from growing. In most cases, these injections are painless.

Another alternative solution is laser surgery in which a high-intensity laser beam is directed at the leaky blood vessels to prevent any further leaks. However, this is not always necessary.

There is currently no cure for dry AMD. Nevertheless, this does not imply that you will ultimately lose your sight. Several nutritional treatments can help to reduce the progression of the condition.

Central vision loss or reduction may occur with time. The pace of loss is typically slow. Several nutritional adjustments can help to reduce the progression of the condition.

If you are in danger of developing macular degeneration or have had symptoms associated with macular degeneration, you need to see an ophthalmologist. Contact Russell Micah Levine, MD, through mobile or schedule a consultation online right away.