Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) refers to an eye disease in which the macula, or the sensitive part of the retina located at the back of the eye, gets damaged. The peripheral vision remains intact, but the central vision becomes blurred or distorted.
Now you might be wondering if this condition is treatable. The answer is yes, but it depends on the stage and type. Given that AMD is a complex condition, it is important for patients to see an optometrist, who can provide not just treatment options but also proper management of the disease. Insight Vision Center Optometry, the trusted provider of ortho-k and other eyecare services, explains further.
Regular eye exams conducted by optometrists can help in detecting early signs of AMD, allowing for timely intervention and management. It is usually done through a dilated eye exam, which involves putting some eye drops that will widen the pupil of your eyes. Other techniques that utilize advanced imaging technology, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fundus photography, also enable optometrists to visualize the structure of the retina and identify any abnormalities in the macula. These diagnostic tools help optometrists differentiate between AMD’s dry and wet forms, guiding the appropriate course of action.
As already mentioned, AMD is treatable depending on the stage and type. There’s no treatment for early AMD, but it can be managed and monitored through regular eye exams. Eye doctors may also recommend lifestyle modifications like eating a balanced diet, exercising and quitting smoking.
For intermediate stages of AMD, eye doctors may ask you to take special dietary supplements that may help stop its progression to late AMD. Wet AMD, which is the type of AMD wherein the macula suffers scarring due to leakage of blood resulting from the abnormal growth of blood vessels under the retina, can be treated with anti-VEGF drugs and photodynamic therapy.
Late-stage AMD is when central vision is significantly lost, making it difficult to tackle daily life activities. At this point, eye doctors recommend using low vision devices or have the patient undergo vision rehabilitation so that they can learn to be active and independent.
At Insight Vision Center Optometry, we offer a wide range of eyecare services, from comprehensive eye exams to advanced vision solutions like orthokeratology. We cater to even the most complex eye health needs. Give us a call at (714) 486-3315, or visit our contact page to schedule an appointment. We serve clients in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa, CA.
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