Macular
Degeneration

 

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Age-related Macular Degeneration, Northport, AL 

Our goal at Tuscaloosa EyeCare in Northport, Pickens County EyeCare in Reform, and Hale County EyeCare in Greensboro is to help you maintain a lifetime of good eyesight. Our experienced eye doctors diagnose and treat a range of eye diseases and other issues, including age-related macular degeneration.    

What is age-related macular degeneration?    

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease that affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision which lets you see objects right in front of you. It’s most common in people ages 50 and older and can lead to severe loss of central vision.   

AMD usually doesn’t have any obvious symptoms in the early stages. But as it progresses, you might notice things like blurry or distorted vision, dark spots, trouble seeing at night, straight lines looking wavy, and a gray or dark spot right in the middle of your vision field. 

Types of age-related macular degeneration    

There are two types of AMD: dry and wet

  • Dry AMD is the most common form of AMD, and it happens when the macula thins and breaks down slowly over time. 
  • Wet AMD is less common but progresses more quickly. It happens when abnormal blood vessels start growing in the retina, which can start leaking blood and fluid, causing rapid vision loss. 

Treatment for age-related macular degeneration  

While there’s no cure for AMD, there are treatments available to slow its progression. For the dry form, treatments include vitamin supplements, lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, and regular eye exams. For the wet form, treatments include medication, surgery, and laser therapy. Our eye doctors can evaluate your condition and suggest the best treatment to help you manage symptoms and prevent vision loss. 

Schedule an eye exam for macular degeneration 

Everyone should get regular eye exams, especially if you have a high risk of AMD. If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, schedule an eye exam for macular degeneration in Northport, Reform, or Greensboro.