February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration Month, and we want to help you learn more about this common condition. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that affects the macula: the part of the retina that allows you to see sharp objects straight ahead. Aging causes the macula to degenerate.
As the most common cause of vision loss in adults 40 and above, understanding the warning signs and treatment options of AMD is important in protecting your eyes now and in the future.
Symptoms of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration is a progressive disease. The first stage of early dry AMD doesn’t have symptoms. Even when the disease progresses to an intermediate stage, many people do not have symptoms. Some may notice trouble seeing when the light is low or mild blurriness when looking straight ahead.
Because AMD doesn’t usually display symptoms, annual dilated eye exams are key to early diagnosis and intervention.Â
In late AMD, whether you have the dry or wet type, you may start seeing straight lines as cooked or wavy. You may also notice that your central vision is blurry. As the disease progresses, the blurry center part of your vision might get larger. You could also see blank spots, and colors might seem less bright.
Treating Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Although AMD is incurable, your eye doctor can slow its progression. You can also minimize the risk of getting AMD or slow it down by quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and getting exercise.
Special dietary supplements may also help slow down the effects of age-related macular degeneration.
If you have wet macular degeneration, anti-VEGF drugs injected into your eye could stop further vision loss. Photodynamic therapy, which is a combination of laser treatment and injections, can also stop additional vision loss.
We will discuss the most effective treatment for your AMD to reduce its impact on your life and preserve your vision.
Where to Find Macular Degeneration Treatment in Loveland, CO
Kirk Eye Center serves Loveland and the surrounding areas in Colorado. Our esteemed team of eye-care specialists is the only independent eye-care provider in Northern Colorado. Dr. John D. Kirk and Dr. Dustin Asay work hard to ensure every patient they treat receives the most personalized, effective treatment for their unique eye needs.
To find out more about age-related macular degeneration, speak with a professional at Kirk Eye Center. To schedule an appointment, please call 970-669-1107 or complete our contact form.