senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(520) 299-4000

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 Alvernon Optical - Sunrise 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 Alvernon Optical - Sunrise 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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151 Reviews
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- Aug. 03, 2024
Pretty much a drop in appointment to see optometrist. Very helpful and good advice.
- Jul. 22, 2024
Staff was very friendly and helpful.
- Jun. 27, 2024
Fast service. Great staff
- May. 27, 2024
Amazing staff all around, from Dr Wanon at the top to the very bottom. Everyone was patient and grac... eful in managing my needs.
- Mar. 26, 2024
Staff were very helpful and glasses were ready when promised.
- Feb. 08, 2024
Great staff, selection and price
- Jan. 20, 2024
Excellent service and friendly staff!
- Jan. 20, 2024
Dr wanen was very much caring and spent enough time to explain my eye condition, cuz I was worri... ed about my blurry vision .
- Jan. 13, 2024
Wonderful experience!! Thank you!! Highly recommended!!!
- Dec. 06, 2023
Dr. Wanon is knowledgeable and caring.
- Nov. 23, 2023
Great Service
- Nov. 11, 2023
Very professional and a great experience.
- Sep. 24, 2023
Great service
- Jun. 17, 2023
Staff was friendly and efficient, and the Dr was thorough and attentive.
- May. 19, 2023
Dr Wanon was excellent! Very pleased with my entire experience. The front desk staff was also very... accommodating! I will recommend to my circle of friends!
- Apr. 10, 2023
Great staff and solid service
- Mar. 17, 2023
Great experience!
- Jan. 10, 2023
Jaime and Nenah are spectacular with clients, I love stopping by to simply say hello and cut up with... the staff.
- Jan. 06, 2023
10 stars for patience in helping my child learn to put in contacts! Great service, friendly, great d... octor, organized, will price match for contacts.
- Jan. 05, 2023
Great service, friendly staff, and prompt service!

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Macular Degeneration Treatment in Tucson

Our optometry practice in Tucson

Photograph of Jacob Wanon
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
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senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

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

(520) 299-4000