Macular Degeneration Cape Coral
Macular Degeneration is a leading cause of blindness among Americans 60 and older, and the vision loss caused by age-related macular degeneration is a growing problem. Age related macular degeneration can progress quickly, so early detection is critical for controlling the progression of the disease. At Snead Eye Group in Cape Coral, we offer services to patients to detect, monitor, manage and treat age related macular degeneration.
What is Macular Degeneration?
Macular Degeneration is a condition that affects the macula portion of the retina, which is responsible for sharp central vision like what’s needed to focus on reading or driving. Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is caused by the natural aging process. There are two different types of Macular Degeneration: Dry Macular Degeneration and Wet Macular Degeneration.
Types of macular degeneration
DRY MACULAR DEGENERATION
This is by far, the most common form of macular degeneration, occurring in 85% to 90% of patients with the disorder. This form appears as dry yellow spots on the macula. Many patients experience only mild vision loss or distortion in the beginning stages. Although your vision will slowly and progressively decline, it will not cause complete blindness. You may have dry macular degeneration for many years without any significant change in your vision or lifestyle.
WET MACULAR DEGENERATION
This form occurs in only about 10% to 15% of patients with the disorder. The good news is that wet macular degeneration, if caught in time, can be stopped and often reversed. The bad news is that if it is not caught in time, vision loss is severe and sudden. Wet macular degeneration occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina causing distortion and damage.
Contact Us Today!
HOW IS MACULAR DEGENERATION TREATED?
At this time, claims for successful treatments range from conservative to bizarre. There are many treatments available with questionable results. The only proven treatment at this time is laser surgery. Lasers are used to halt the progression of wet macular degeneration. Laser treatment does not restore lost vision and may cause vision to be somewhat worse after the procedure. Although this may seem counterproductive, this loss is usually less severe than the eventual loss that will occur if laser treatment is not performed.
HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY REMAINING VISION?
Since macular degeneration only affects the central portion of your vision, your peripheral vision remains intact. Other diseases, such as cataracts and glaucoma can destroy peripheral vision if left untreated.
Both of these diseases can be treated or controlled to keep vision at its best. To preserve your vision, schedule a comprehensive eye examination with one of our doctors at Snead Eye Group.
AMSLER GRID
Cover one eye and look constantly at the center dot. Be sure all lines are straight and all small squares are the same size. If any area on the grid becomes distorted, blurred, discolored, or otherwise abnormal, call your eye doctor. You could have progressing macular degeneration.
Click the following link for a printable version of the Amsler Grid with detailed instructions on how to use it to test your vision at home.
Have Questions? Need More Information?
The Eye Professionals At SNEAD EYE GROUP Are Ready To Help You Now!
Macular Degeneration Support
Macular degeneration can cause blurred vision, distortion, and a loss of visual detail. The good news is there are treatments to help slow the progression of macular degeneration. Contact Snead Eye Group today to see what the status is of your eye health.
Questions About Macular Degeneration
What are the early warning signs of macular degeneration?
It is best to see your eyecare professional regularly to stay on top of any symptoms. Some warning signs to be aware of are:
· Blurred vision or blind spot in field of vision
· Visual distortions
· The need for brighter light when reading
· Dark areas in your central vision
· Recognizing faces
· Any visual issues after the age of 50
Who Gets Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is considered part of the aging process. Other factors of risk to pay attention to are: Individuals 50 and over, family history, being overweight, smoking, high blood pressure, being of European descent.
Does age-related macular degeneration get worse?
AMD may get worse over time. Please see your eye professional at Snead Eye Group to address your eye health today.
Can you reverse macular degeneration?
Macular Degeneration Reversal – Currently, there is no cure for macular degeneration. Individuals should consult their eye doctor and make steps towards proper nutrition.
Can you live a normal life with macular degeneration?
Millions of people with AMD lead normal lives and continue living a healthy life.
How do you deal with macular degeneration?
Macular degeneration, can be an irritation and scary thing. That is why it is important to have a discussion with your doctor to understand more about the disease, your prognosis, and how to improve living conditions. Rapid progress is being made in vision support and disease prevention. Some type of macular degeneration can be treated with certain injections, photodynamic therapy or laser surgery.
Can you go blind from macular degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that affects a person’s central vision. AMD can result in severe loss of central vision, but people rarely go blind from it.
CONVENIENT LOCATIONS
Convenient eyecare and surgical centers throughout Southwest Florida
SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Don’t wait to get your examination. Schedule your optical appointment today
FINANCING AVAILABLE
Pay for medical expenses not covered by insurance with CareCredit
Address:
Snead Eye Group – Cape Coral
1616 Cape Coral Pkwy W Unit 113
Cape Coral, FL 33914
Phone: (239) 936-8686
Hours:
Monday: 8AM – 5PM
Tuesday: 8AM – 5PM
Wednesday: 8AM – 5PM
Thursday: 8AM – 5PM
Friday: 8AM – 5PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed