Low Vision

Macular Degeneration Evaluation and Treatment

The term "macular degeneration" includes many different eye diseases, all of which affect central, or detail vision. Age-related macular degeneration is the most common of these disorders, mainly affecting people over the age of 60. Although there are many types of macular degeneration, age-related macular degeneration (AMD or ARMD) is the most common type. Age-related macular degeneration occurs in two forms: "wet" age-related macular degeneration and "dry" age-related macular degeneration. "Wet" age-related macular degeneration is less common but more aggressive in its development to severe and, often, permanent central vision loss. "Dry" age-related macular degeneration is the more common type and is more slowly progressive in causing loss of vision.

What is wet age-related macular degeneration?

Wet age-related macular degeneration occurs when abnormal blood vessels begin to grow underneath the retina. These new blood vessels (known as choroidal neovascularization or CNV) tend to be very fragile and often leak blood and fluid. The blood and fluid raise the macula from its normal place at the back of the eye and interfere with the retina's function and causes the central vision to blur. Under these circumstances, vision loss may be rapid and severe. Some patients, however, do not notice visual changes despite the onset of CNV. Therefore, periodic eye examinations are very important for patients at risk for CNV. Once CNV has developed in one eye, whether there is a visual loss or not, the other eye is at relatively high risk for the same change.

Diabetic Retinopathy

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, you may be at risk of losing your vision since your body does not utilize sugar properly and, when the sugar levels rise, damage to the retinal blood vessels may occur. This injury to the retinal vessels is known as Diabetic Retinopathy. Diabetic Retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults.

Glaucoma Diagnosis and Management

Glaucoma, the leading cause of blindness and visual impairment in the United States, is an eye disease that can lead to a permanent loss of vision. We provide all diagnostic and treatment options for glaucoma care. Glaucoma generally provides no warning signs or symptoms of disease, making testing an important part of a full vision exam. We utilize the latest and most advanced computerized tests to diagnose glaucoma. For those who require surgery, laser treatment can be utilized for precise treatment and quick healing.