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Macular Degeneration in Monroe

image of man adjusting glasses with text overlay about macular degeneration

What Is Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD or ARMD)?

The macula on the retina provides sharp, central vision. The breakdown of the macula is a disease called macular degeneration, and can be serious. Untreated macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of blindness in those over 65 years old.

While researchers have not yet discovered a cure for age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), there are treatment options which prevent the disease from progressing to blindness, and in some cases, they can even improve vision. It’s important to have an open discussion with your eye doctor about the risks and limitations of ARMD treatments.

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Types of Macular Degeneration:

There are 2 basic types of ARMD, the wet form and the dry form.

  • Dry macular degeneration is considered the less aggressive form of ARMD. It typically progresses much more slowly, and the level of eyesight damage is less severe. Dry ARMD is detected during routine eye exams, which is why it’s important to have yearly testing. Treating Dry AMD often involves high doses of zinc and antioxidants which have been shown to slow diseases progression.
  • Wet macular degeneration is the more severe form of ARMD. Call us to book an emergency eye doctor’s appointment if you experience a sudden worsening of blurry central vision. Wet ARMD occurs when there is abnormal blood vessel growth (angiogenesis), and leakage, which can cause scar tissue to develop. Treatments include laser surgery, injecting light sensitive dyes, or AMD medication injected directly into the eye to inhibit angiogenesis.

AMD Risk Factors and Treatment

Macular degeneration is an age related eye disease that runs in families, and is a leading cause of low vision and blindness in our aging population. This eye disease cannot currently be cured, but there are treatments and management strategies that can help slow the progression of the disease and protect your remaining vision. In many cases, early detection and regular monitoring make a meaningful difference. For people with dry AMD, certain nutritional supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, and zeaxanthin, may help reduce the risk of the condition progressing to the more advanced wet form, which is associated with greater vision loss. Your eye doctor can help determine whether these supplements may be appropriate for you.

For patients with wet AMD, modern treatments such as medicated injections and laser therapy can help slow or stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels that damage the macula. While these treatments cannot fully restore vision that has already been lost, they can help preserve existing vision and, in some cases, even lead to some improvement. Many people with AMD also benefit from low-vision aids such as magnifiers and other visual devices that support daily activities and independence. With ongoing research and regular eye exams, patients today have more tools than ever to manage AMD and maintain their quality of life.