Newtown

(215) 860-9001

Richboro

(215) 485-5384

936 Second Street Pike Richboro, PA 18954, USA

Macular Degeneration

Macular Degeneration

Maintaining good vision should be a part of your overall healthcare. As people age, they are more at risk for developing certain eye conditions like macular degeneration, which can severely impact vision. At EYECARE for You, a special disease screening is offered during your routine eye exam to see the earliest signs of macular degeneration. 

What Is Macular Degeneration?

closeup of eye

Macular degeneration is a progressive eye disease that causes vision loss in the central field of vision. It is often called “age-related macular degeneration” because it primarily affects those over the age of 60. Over time, the retina does a poor job of filtering out waste, and this waste forms deposits called drusen that build up under the retina. As the disease progresses, the retina may continue to degenerate and atrophy causing central vision loss. 

Types of Macular Degeneration

There are two types of macular degeneration - dry and wet. Dry macular degeneration makes up about 90% of macular degeneration cases, while wet macular degeneration makes up the other 10%. The dry form usually progresses more slowly. Protein waste deposits collect in the macula and obstruct vision. Dry macular degeneration can develop into wet macular degeneration in which abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina. These blood vessels are weak and can leak blood and fluid which can suddenly and severely impact vision. 

Symptoms

Early macular degeneration may not cause any symptoms so it is important to have routine annual eye exams to catch the earliest signs and preserve vision. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include 

- Blurred or spotty vision 

- Wavy or distorted vision 

- Reduced central vision 

- Needing more light to read

- Trouble functioning in low light levels 

Risk Factors

Risk factors for macular degeneration include older age, family history of macular degeneration, years of too much UV exposure without sunglasses, smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, and a diet high in saturated fats. Macular degeneration is most common in white populations. 

To reduce your risk, wear sunglasses when outside, don’t smoke, and eat a diet full of fruits, vegetables, dark leafy greens, healthy fats/omega 3s, and antioxidants. Controlling other systemic conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes can also help reduce your risk. 

Treatments!

There is no complete cure for macular degeneration so early diagnosis is the best defense. Treatment of dry macular degeneration may include taking an oral vitamin twice a day. An AREDS 2 formula is recommended to help slow progression of macular degeneration. This supplement includes precise researched levels of lutein, zeaxanthin, copper, zinc, vitamin C and vitamin E. There is also now an FDA approved injection for the advanced form of dry macular degeneration. The wet form of macular degeneration may include injections to stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels and a laser procedure to stop leakage from those abnormal blood vessels. In addition to regular eye exams, our optometrists often recommend you monitor your vision at home daily with an Amsler grid to catch small changes in your vision quickly. 

Contact EYECARE For You in Richboro, PA For Your Vision Needs!

Drs. Joyce, Lynch, and Rosenthal have extensive training in eye disease diagnosis and management. This ensures their patients maintain good vision through all stages of life. Stay on top of your eye health. Contact us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to using the latest technology to provide you with the best possible eye care. 

Richboro office (215) 485-5384
Newtown office (215) 860-9001


Hours of Operation

Richboro Office

Monday

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday

11:00 am-7:00 pm

Thursday

10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday

9:00 am-3:00 pm

Saturday

9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Sunday

Closed

Richboro Office

Monday
9:00 am-5:00 pm
Tuesday
10:00 am-6:00 pm
Wednesday
11:00 am-7:00 pm
Thursday
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Friday
9:00 am-3:00 pm
Saturday
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Sunday
Closed

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