Macular Degeneration Services from Our Springfield, NJ Eye Doctor

More than 10 million U.S. individuals suffer from macular degeneration (AMD), the #1 cause of senior vision loss.  Visiting our Springfield, NJ office for an exam by our Eye Health Group eye doctor on a regular basis can help identify this condition at an early stage.

Understanding Macular Degeneration

It is important for patients to realize that there are two types of macular degeneration, dry and wet AMD.  Our optometrist notes that while every wet AMD case begins as dry AMD, not every dry AMD sufferer will develop wet AMD.

Thus far, research has not uncovered a specific cause, precise preventive steps, or a cure for AMD.  Our eye doctor is able to diagnose AMD from changes in the macula of the eye, the middle part of the retina.  Central vision loss occurs as damage progresses.

AMD Symptoms

Our optometrist notes that patients with early AMD are often unaware of any symptoms.  This reinforces the need for regular exams to make an early diagnosis and preserve as much vision as possible.

Some signs of dry and wet AMD are the same.  Dry AMD usually progresses slowly and occurs in both eyes.  Typical symptoms include:

• Increasing difficulty adjusting to lower levels of light
• Reduction in central vision
• Increased incidence of print looking blurred
• Reduction in color intensity or brightness
• Requiring increasingly brighter light for close work
• Difficulty identifying faces
• Interpreting straight lines as bent

These are the most common wet AMD symptoms:

• Vision haziness
• Reduced central vision
• Straight lines appearing bent
• Reduced color brightness or intensity
• Blind spot or blurring of central vision
• Quick appearance or increase of symptoms

Treatment Options

A comprehensive vision exam is the first step toward a diagnosis of AMD.  The key therapies for preventing dry AMD from advancing are close monitoring and treatment.

Our eye doctor notes that two therapies available for wet AMD are photodynamic therapy and eye injections.  Some AMD patients benefit from taking recommended nutritional supplements.  Important self-care steps include avoiding UV exposure, shedding excess weight, and not smoking.

Schedule an Exam with Our Optometrist in Springfield, NJ

Our entire eye care team at the Eye Health Group in Springfield, NJ is focused on helping you preserve your vision.  Resolution of any vision difficulty starts with an eye exam.  Whether you need a vision check, corrective eyewear, treatment for conditions such as macular degeneration, or emergency services, we are here to help.  Take a proactive path to protecting your vision by calling us today at (973) 376-7900 to schedule an exam with our optometrist.