What Treatments Are Available for Macular Degeneration?

Are you experiencing problems with your central vision? Is it fuzzy? Do straight lines on paper appear wavy? All of these are signs of macular degeneration. A comprehensive eye exam will reveal your condition and what is causing it. At Sina J Sabet MD PC in Alexandria, VA, our ophthalmologist understands macular degeneration, its effects, and how to treat it. Below is some information to help you understand it. 

What is Macular Degeneration?

The macula is part of the retina. The retina is responsible for converting information from light entering the eye into signals that the brain can understand. The macula is the part of the retina that is responsible for your central vision. It also contains a large number of color receptors that helps you to see in color. 

What are the symptoms of macular degeneration?

• Diminished central vision
• Diminished color vision
• Dark spots in the center of your vision
• Distorted vision
• Straight lines appearing wavy

Macular degeneration is usually age-related. It also can be hereditary. Being overweight, eating a high-saturated fat diet, and smoking can all be contributing factors to this condition as well .

What Are the Causes of and Treatments for Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is divided into two categories according its progression. 

Dry AMD is the most common type. It is caused by the thinning of the macula. It also occurs from small yellowish lipid deposits in or around the macula. These deposits are thought to come from deteriorating tissue.

Dry AMD happens slowly over time and there is no cure. Vision lost cannot be recovered. Having regular eye exams will alert you to what is happening and its progression. Eating leafy greens, exercising, wearing UV protective sunglasses, and taking vitamins that support eye health can help slow the disease's progression.

Wet AMD is the more severe type of macular degeneration. It is caused by new unstable blood vessels that grow underneath the retina and macula. These unstable blood vessels leak blood and fluids that damage light receptor cells. This causes permanent damage and creates blind spots in your central vision. 

Wet AMD treatment is directed at stopping the growth of these unstable blood vessels. Several medications are used to accomplish this. Sometimes, these medications have to be injected by a retinal surgeon. 

Where to Receive Quality Eye Care

If you are experiencing problems with your vision, or are in need of an eye exam, you can depend on us. At Sina J Sabet MD PC in Alexandria, VA, our experienced ophthalmologist can diagnosis and treat eye disorders like AMD. Contact us today to arrange an appointment. We are happy to help you figure out your vision problems and provide you with the best eye care possible. We also accept emergency eye appointments.