If you’re in your 40s, 50s, or older, you should know about age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The condition can significantly reduce your central vision if not diagnosed and treated. This condition affects the macula, the part of your retina responsible for central vision. As macular degeneration progresses, daily activities like reading, driving, or recognizing faces can be challenging. At Milwaukee Eye Surgeons, board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained cornea specialist Dr. Kenneth Weinlander is committed to helping you preserve your vision. Here’s what you need to know about AMD.
What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is an age-related condition that damages your macula, gradually reducing central vision. There are two main types: dry and wet macular degeneration.
Dry AMD
Dry AMD accounts for around 9 in 10 cases of AMD. It happens when the macula thins out and small clumps of protein, called drusen, form on your retina. This process happens slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms right away. However, you may experience blurred or reduced central vision as the condition advances.
Wet AMD
Wet AMD is rarer and more serious. All cases of wet AMD start as dry AMD. However, it only affects about 10% of people with AMD. Wet AMD develops when the eyes create excessive vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This causes unhealthy new blood vessels in the choroid (the eye’s vascular layer). The blood vessels then move into the retina, and they leak eye fluids and blood into the macula. The leakage may cause scarring and, potentially, rapid vision loss. Wet AMD usually progresses faster than the dry form.
Causes of Macular Degeneration
Experts are still investigating the causes of macular degeneration, but we do know that age is the most significant factor. It typically affects those over 50. Other risk factors include:
- Family history of AMD
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Excess weight
- Prolonged sun exposure
While you can’t control age and genetics, you can manage other risk factors by adopting a healthier lifestyle. For example, quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet of leafy greens and fish, and shielding your eyes from UV light can help lower your risk.
Macular Degeneration Help in Milwaukee
If you suspect you have macular degeneration or are at risk, it’s not too late to protect your vision. Milwaukee Eye Surgeons offers comprehensive eye exams, including screenings for macular degeneration. Using advanced techniques like optical coherence tomography (OCT) and the Amsler grid test, Dr. Weinlander can accurately diagnose your condition and guide your treatment using the most effective AMD management strategies. He offers customized dietary guidance to help slow dry AMD progression, as well as highly effective intravitreal injections to control wet AMD affordably and conveniently in the Milwaukee office.
Call 414-377-5550 or contact the office online to make an appointment and take the first step toward preserving your vision.
