Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over 50 – but with new technology and therapies, it’s more manageable than ever.
What is Macular Degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula – the small but mighty part of your retina responsible for sharp, central vision. It's what you use to read, drive, recognize faces, and see fine details. As the macula deteriorates, so does your ability to do these everyday things.
There are two main forms:
- Dry AMD: The more common form, caused by thinning of the macula over time.
- Wet AMD: Less common but more severe, involving abnormal blood vessels that leak into the retina.
While dry AMD typically progresses more slowly, both types can cause significant vision problems – especially if left unmanaged.
Common Symptoms and Diagnosis
Macular degeneration often sneaks up quietly. You might not notice anything until the condition has already advanced.
Here are some early signs to watch out for:
- Blurry or fuzzy vision
- Straight lines that appear wavy or distorted
- Trouble recognizing faces
- A dark or empty area in the center of your vision
- Need for brighter light when reading or doing close work
At Accurate Family Vision, we use Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to detect these changes early – even before symptoms start. This advanced imaging creates detailed cross-sections of your retina, helping us catch problems when they’re most treatable.
What's New in Macular Degeneration Treatment?
AMD treatment has come a long way in recent years, especially for wet AMD. Here’s what’s gaining traction in today’s retina care clinics:
Anti-VEGF Injections
Medications like Eylea HD and Vabysmo block VEGF – a protein that stimulates blood vessel growth. These injections prevent leaks and preserve vision, and the latest formulas last longer between treatments, reducing appointment frequency.
Longer-Lasting Delivery Systems
Research is now focused on sustained-release treatments. These include implantable drug reservoirs that release medication gradually, meaning fewer injections and more consistent vision protection.
Supplements, Lifestyle, and the Role of AMD Prevention
For patients with early or intermediate dry AMD, treatment isn't just about medication – it’s also about taking proactive steps to slow progression.
AREDS2 Supplements
The AREDS2 formula, developed by the National Eye Institute, combines specific antioxidants and minerals shown to reduce the risk of advanced AMD. These over-the-counter supplements contain lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and copper.
They don’t reverse damage, but they do help slow things down – especially in patients with a high risk of progression.
Diet and Lifestyle Tips
Lifestyle choices matter more than you might think when managing AMD.
Here’s what helps:
- Eating a diet rich in leafy greens, omega-3s, and colorful fruits
- Wearing sunglasses to reduce UV exposure
- Exercising regularly to promote healthy circulation
- Quitting smoking (if applicable), which is one of the biggest modifiable risk factors
These aren’t just general health recommendations – they’re AMD-specific strategies that protect your retina.
The Future of AMD Care: What’s on the Horizon?
The field of retina care is moving fast. While not yet standard treatments, gene therapy and stem cell therapy are actively being explored in clinical trials.
- Gene therapy aims to replace or repair faulty genes linked to AMD progression.
- Stem cell therapy may help regenerate damaged cells in the retina.
While these aren’t mainstream options yet, they’re giving new hope to patients – and they underscore how important it is to stay engaged with your eye care provider as science evolves.
Personalized AMD Monitoring & Treatment in Gilbert
At Accurate Family Vision, we’re committed to tracking your AMD journey closely. Using OCT technology and a customized care approach, we help patients in Gilbert monitor changes over time and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or you’re managing symptoms already, you’ll always have a plan in place – and a team ready to support you.
If you're concerned about macular degeneration, schedule a consultation with our Gilbert retina care team today to explore the latest in treatment options.