Macular Degeneration

Comprehensive Treatment for Macular Degeneration at Our Offices Serving the Denver Area

The macula of the eye is in the center of the retina and is associated with seeing fine detail, a necessity for activities such as reading, driving, or working on a computer. When the macula becomes damaged, either due to cellular breakdown or the leakage of blood vessels in the retina, it is known as macular degeneration and it can lead to vision loss. Macular degeneration occurs mainly in people 60 years of age or older. The physicians at Vision Care Specialists offer treatment for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) at our offices located in and around the Denver area, including Aurora, Highland Ranch, and Lakewood. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

Types of Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is classified into two categories: wet AMD and dry AMD. Wet AMD concerns the build up of blood vessels beneath the macula, which leak and shift the macula from its normal position. With wet AMD, vision loss occurs rapidly. Dry AMD involves the breakdown in the cells of the macula. Vision loss is gradual and patients notice that their vision becomes blurry before they eventually lose their central vision.

Macular degeneration is detected in a comprehensive eye exam at one of our Denver-area offices. Diagnostic tests, including the optomap® Retinal Exam, can help our optometrists or ophthalmologist assess if damage is present on the macula. If deterioration is found, our physicians can determine the type of macular degeneration is present and, if possible, proceed to treat the condition accordingly.

     Healthy Retina

Retina w/Macular Degeneration

Treatment of Macular Degeneration

While dry AMD occurs in stages, wet AMD is considered an advanced stage that progresses until the patient loses their central vision. Dry AMD can turn into wet AMD, as the deterioration of the macula advances through the stages.

Dry AMD is incurable and untreatable. However, our physicians can monitor the progression of macular degeneration and recommend dietary changes that can help delay vision loss. Though wet AMD is incurable, there are treatments available to delay the progression of vision loss and halt damage. Treatments for this type of macular degeneration include photodynamic therapy and laser photocoagulation. Since the progression of wet AMD is so rapid, it is imperative to seek treatment as soon as this type of macular degeneration is diagnosed.

Contact Vision Care Specialists for a Diagnostic Test for Macular Degeneration

Eye examinations for patients over the age of 60 should include a diagnostic test for the presence of macular degeneration. If you notice that your vision is blurry or reduced, contact the experienced physicians at Vision Care Specialists in Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, and Highlands Ranch for a comprehensive eye exam. Treatment for macular degeneration can stave off total vision loss.

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