Frequently Asked Questions About Macular Degeneration Treatment in Fair Lawn

You may know the term “macular degeneration” as something to be feared and dreaded — but how much do you know about the disease itself? Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about macular degeneration treatment in Fair Lawn NJ.

What is macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a disease that affects the macula. This zone of the retina controls what you see in your center of vision. The disease destroys macular cells to rob you of the part of your vision you use to read, drive, see faces, and focus directly on objects.

Why is macular degeneration abbreviated as AMD?

The disease is often referred to as AMD, which stands for age-related macular degeneration, because it usually occurs later in life. The signs of macular degeneration generally start to appear in one’s 50s and 60s.

What is dry macular degeneration?

Dry macular degeneration, also called non-neovascular degeneration, is the milder and more common form of the disease. Small protein deposits called drusen begin to accumulate on the macula, possibly causing early-stage vision problems such as straight lines that appear wavy.

What is wet macular degeneration?

Wet, or neovascular, macular degeneration is the more advanced stage that troubles about 15 percent of all sufferers. This problem is characterized by the rapid growth of leaky, abnormal blood vessels. These blood vessels are prone to bleeding into the vitreous humor of the eye. Symptoms at this stage may include large blank spots in your center of vision.

What causes macular degeneration?

While age is the biggest factor, genetics may also play a role, with women, whites, and people with light-colored eyes having an elevated risk. Other risk factors include smoking, alcohol, heart disease, hypertension, obesity, and excess exposure to sunlight.

How do you detect macular degeneration?

We urge patients to receive annual comprehensive eye exams. These exams include a detailed inspection of the inside of the eye, which lets us spot drusen, macular damage, or abnormal blood vessels.

How do you treat AMD?

Dry AMD is treated by adopting healthy lifestyle habits to reduce aggravating factors. Wet AMD is treated with medications that discourage the growth new blood vessels, and by a special nutritional supplementation plan called AREDS2.

Can AMD be prevented?

You can indeed minimize your chances of developing AMD. We may make recommendations such as maintaining a healthy diet/weight, wearing UV protection, exercising, controlling blood pressure, and not smoking.

We’re Your Source for Macular Degeneration Treatment in Fair Lawn NJ

Resident Eye Care Associates is your source of macular degeneration treatment in Fair Lawn NJ. Contact us at (201) 797-2747 for a comprehensive exam!