Macular Degeneration in Greater South Coast, MA

Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of vision loss and blindness in individuals 60 years of age and older. The condition occurs when the center of the retina, called the macula, begins to deteriorate. This can cause a loss of central vision, which is needed for tasks, such as driving and reading. There is no known cure for macular degeneration at this time, but our skilled vision professionals at Eye Health Vision Centers are experienced in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of the condition.

If you suspect you are suffering from macular degeneration, schedule a comprehensive eye exam right away. Our teams at our Middletown, RI and Fairhaven, Fall River, Taunton, and Dartmouth, MA offices are extensively trained in detecting and diagnosing macular degeneration. Using innovative diagnostic techniques and cutting-edge treatments, we can help slow the progression of the disease and help you live your life to the fullest.

There are two forms of macular degeneration – wet and dry – and both are generally considered age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The symptoms a patient experiences depends on the type and progression of the disease. Most patients have dry macular degeneration, which is incurable. However, due to the advanced techniques and personalized treatment approach utilized by the specialists at Eye Health Vision Centers, we can help you manage your symptoms and delay the progression of the disease. When present, symptoms can include:

• Blurred vision
• The illusion that straight lines are wavy
• A gray, dark, or empty spot in your vision field
• Seeing objects as smaller than they actually are

While the exact cause of macular degeneration is unknown, there are some risk factors that are believed to be linked to the disease. These include age (over 60), smoking, and genetics. The onset of the disease is very slow in most cases with vision loss and distortion only beginning in the more advanced stage. Early diagnosis and routine eye exams are key to preventing a loss of vision. Additional risk factors for the conditions include:

• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Fair skin
• Light colored eyes
• Gender (Female)
• Obesity

The treatment that will best treat your macular degeneration will be determined after an eye exam and a consultation with a member of our team. Injections, like Avastin, Lucentis, and Eyelea, effectively shrink the abnormal blood vessels in the eye, improving the central vision. These medications are typically our first line of defense when the disease is diagnosed. For more progressive stages, our ophthalmologist can perform Argon laser surgery to cauterize the vessels and prevent them from causing further damage.

Being diagnosed with macular degeneration may be intimidating, but with the help of a skilled team, your symptoms can be managed and the progression of the condition slowed. At Eye Health Vision Centers, we provide comprehensive diagnostic testing and use our experience with macular degeneration to create a tailored treatment plan that will help you take a stand against vision loss. Schedule an appointment today at one of our greater South Coast-area facilities to learn more.