Macular Degeneration Doctors Near You

Do you have macular degeneration? If so, there are macular degeneration doctors near you, close by at Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania at one of our convenient locations.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

In people over age 60, macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss. If your central vision is distorted or blurry, come see us. Macular degeneration must be detected early and treated early. If not, your vision can rapidly degrade. Macular degeneration is a progressive disease that affects the retina by destroying the retina’s center, called the macula. This sensitive portion of the retina is responsible for providing clear details so that a person can recognize faces, read and drive.

There are two forms of macular degeneration. The dry form is by far the most common form, accounting for about 90 percent of all cases. Dry AMD happens when protein deposits called drusen form near the macula and cloud a person’s vision. The wet form of the disease is very rare. It is an advanced form of AMD involving more severe vision loss, and it is caused by blood vessel leakage near the retina. This leakage permanently damages the retina’s light-sensitive cells, creating AMD’s characteristic central “blind spot”.

What doctor do I need?

Macular degeneration doctors are typically ophthalmologists or retina specialists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of macular degeneration. Here are some key points about macular degeneration doctors:

• Ophthalmologists and Retina Specialists: Macular degeneration doctors are often ophthalmologists or retina specialists. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in eye care and can diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions. Retina specialists have additional training specifically focused on diseases of the retina, including macular degeneration.
• Diagnosis: Macular degeneration doctors use various diagnostic tools and procedures to identify and evaluate the extent of macular degeneration. This may include a comprehensive eye examination, visual acuity tests, optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography, and other imaging techniques.
• Treatment: The treatment of macular degeneration depends on the type and stage of the disease. For dry macular degeneration, there is currently no cure, but doctors may recommend lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, and regular monitoring. Wet macular degeneration, which involves abnormal blood vessel growth, may be treated with anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, or photodynamic therapy.
• Monitoring and Follow-up: Macular degeneration is a chronic condition that requires ongoing monitoring. Macular degeneration doctors will schedule regular follow-up appointments to assess changes in vision, evaluate the effectiveness of treatments, and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
• Low Vision Rehabilitation: In advanced stages of macular degeneration, when vision loss is significant and cannot be fully restored, macular degeneration doctors may refer patients to low vision rehabilitation services. These services aim to help individuals maximize their remaining vision through adaptive strategies, assistive devices, and counseling.
• Research and Advancements: Macular degeneration doctors stay informed about the latest research and advancements in the field. They may participate in clinical trials or incorporate new treatments and technologies into their practice to provide the best possible care for their patients.

If you suspect you have macular degeneration or have been diagnosed with the condition, it’s important to consult with a qualified eye care professional for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate management. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and timely intervention in managing macular degeneration. Macular degeneration doctors are near you at Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania. Give us a call to schedule your appointment. We look forward to meeting you.