senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(717) 436-8955

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration, also called AMD or age-related macular degeneration, occurs when the macula — the central portion of the retina — begins to wear down, causing central vision loss.

People who suffer from AMD tend to lose their “straight ahead” vision, making it difficult to read, drive, and recognize faces. 

Total vision loss is unlikely, as there's typically enough peripheral vision to allow for other activities of daily life. 

Man with macular degeneration


Types of Macular Degeneration:

macular degeneration types

  • Dry AMD: small deposits called drusen damage retinal nerve cells and reduce vision
  • Wet AMD: new blood vessels form that leak and release fluid that harms the macula. This is a more severe form of AMD that can more quickly cause vision loss.

Don’t Let AMD Rob You of Your Sight

An estimated 196 million people are living with macular degeneration worldwide. Although those affected by it rarely lose all their vision, the vast majority suffer from some degree of vision loss. 

While there is currently no cure for AMD, there are certain treatments that can slow its progression — and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

If you think you're at risk or are experiencing symptoms, contact Envision Eye Care today. We can diagnose and help treat the disease.


Risk Factors for AMD

  • Aged 50+

    The onset of AMD usually happens over the age of 50 and increases substantially with time. For instance, a 2% risk at age 55 can turn into a 30% risk by age 75.

  • Lifestyle factors

    Smoking or eating a diet high in saturated fat can increase your risk of AMD. Furthermore, these habits increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease–two additional risk factors for AMD.

  • Obesity

    Research shows that people with a BMI of over 30 double their chances of developing AMD.

  • Family History

    If you have a close relative with AMD, you have a higher risk of developing this eye condition.


How to Stop the Progression of Macular Degeneration

While there isn’t yet a cure for AMD or an effective way of reversing vision loss that has already occurred, you can take certain steps and adopt new habits to slow the progression of the disease.

Furthermore, certain treatments can slow its progression and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

Talk to us about how you can slow the progression of the disease and avoid vision loss by contacting Envision Eye Care today. 

Photograph


Macular Degeneration FAQs

What are the first signs of AMD?

You may have AMD and not know it. Typically, symptoms may not develop until the advanced stage of the eye disease.

First signs of AMD may include: 

  • Blurred vision
  • Blind spots or dark spots
  • Straight lines appearing distorted or wavy
  • Faded colors 

 For early detection and better outcomes, it's important to undergo regular eye exams at our eye clinic, especially if you have a family history of AMD or other risk factors. 

How common is macular degeneration?

Statistics indicate that 8.7% of the world population has macular degeneration. The rate of AMD is expected to increase from 196 million in 2022 to 288 million by 2040.

What is the best treatment for macular degeneration?

Currently, the most common treatment for wet AMD is the injection of medications called anti-VEGF agents. High levels of VEGF in the eye increase the formation of abnormal blood vessels that cause much of the damage in wet AMD.

Patient Reviews
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14 Reviews
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- Oct. 03, 2024
Had an amazing experience, everyone was attentive and very nice
- May. 08, 2023
The most modern and thorough medical and optical equipment available, along with one of the best doc... tors you will find in any field - both in knowledge and in care for his patients.
- Feb. 07, 2023
Very nice place. Everyone was nice. Dr was very thorough with exam and answered all my questions. Ev... en had someone help me pick out the frames.
- Feb. 06, 2023
Everyone was very nice and the exam was quick and easy and they took my insurance from my employer. ... The only problem is that they are closed on Friday but that's because of not having enough employees
- May. 13, 2021
I have had nothing but good dealings with this office. They've always treated me with respect, and t... he doctor has very good equipment. I would recommend him to anyone.
- Jan. 04, 2018
Friendly and efficient staff. The doctor is thorough and efficient, willing to take the time and exp... lain. He actually cares about his patients.
- Jun. 30, 2017
The eye doctor and his staff we're very personable and treated me with care. That is always apprecia... ted when you go to a doctor.

View All 14 Reviews

Macular Degeneration Treatment in Mifflintown

Our optometry practice in Mifflintown

Photograph of Darin Whitesel
Hours
  • Monday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday Closed
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Cigna
  • Humana
  • EyeMed
  • VBA
  • Aetna
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield Illinois

senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

Don’t let AMD stop you from doing the things you love.

(717) 436-8955