At Envision Optical in Tweed Heads and Burleigh Waters, our optometry team can help you protect and manage your eye health, which includes providing diagnosis for diseases such as macular degeneration.
With routine comprehensive eye exams, we can work together to prevent or manage the progression of macular degeneration, amongst other eye conditions. Utilizing the latest diagnostic technologies and treatment options, we will tailor an eyecare plan to suit your unique needs.
What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is a progressive eye disease that affects a person's central field of vision due to a thinning macula. You may not notice vision problems in the disease's early stages, and even less likely to see changes when both eyes are simultaneously affected. Let's look at the two types of macular degeneration: dry and wet.
Dry macular degeneration commonly affects people over the age of 50 and occurs when the retina's center deteriorates.
Wet macular degeneration occurs when leaky and damaged blood vessels grow beneath the retina. Fluid buildup in the back of the eye can also cause this disease.
Signs and Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
Symptoms associated with dry macular degeneration include:
- Reduced central vision
- Distorted vision
- Difficulty adapting to low lights
- Fuzzy or blurry vision
- Difficulty recognizing faces
- Retinal damage
Signs of wet macular degeneration are:
- Visual distortions
- Reduced central vision
- Blurry spots in your field of vision
- A dark spot in central vision due to leaking fluid or blood vessels
- Hazy vision
Wet macular degeneration usually progresses faster than dry macular degeneration.
What are the Treatments for Macular Degeneration?
Treatment for macular degeneration depends on the patient's specific case, such as the type of degeneration (wet or dry), severity of the condition and more. Macular degeneration can be treated and controlled with the following:
- A special combination of supplemented minerals and vitamins
- Medications, such as anti-VEGF agents or VEGFR inhibitors to prevent the formation of abnormal blood vessels
- Specialist Surgery
- Corrective lenses, contact lenses, or glasses
Contact us at Tweed Heads or Burleigh Waters
Your eye health and wellness are our highest priority. Our skilled team of optometrists can perform a comprehensive eye examination and offer the best treatment for your individual requirements. Have you noticed changes in your central vision or ability to see fine detail, or have you already been diagnosed with macular degeneration and need help managing the disease? Please don't hesitate to connect with our Tweed Heads or Burleigh Waters team today to arrange an eye appointment.