Macular Degeneration Specialist Pottstown, PA
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People over age 50 are much more susceptible to a disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in older individuals. It is called macular degeneration, or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), so if you suspect or know you have it, or are just concerned because you are over age 50, come get eye care from our team of macular degeneration specialists at Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania in Pottstown PA.
Tell me more about AMD
AMD affects the retina. It is a progressive disease that destroys the light-sensitive portion of the retina known as the macula. When these light-sensitive cells are destroyed, it ruins a person’s ability to distinguish clear details like recognizing faces, details while driving, reading and other activities. AMD absolutely must be detected and treated as early as possible to avoid a rapid degradation of vision.
The disease takes two forms. Dry AMD is by far the most common form, with over 90 percent of all cases falling under this category. Abnormal protein deposits called drusen begin to form near the macula and cloud vision.
The much rarer form of AMD is the wet form. It is also a more advanced form that results in rapid severe vision loss, caused by blood vessel leakage near the retina. That leakage unfortunately permanently damages the retina’s light-sensitive cells. AMD, no matter the form, is characterized by a loss of central vision, the familiar central “blind spot” that occurs.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you are over age 50, it is vitally important that you have an annual comprehensive eye exam which includes a vision evaluation. At Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania, we perform a dilated eye exam to better see the internal structures of your eye. We also perform a detailed visual acuity test, and the combination of both of these methods is the best way to make an AMD diagnosis.
Additionally, we use high-resolution imaging to detect the drusen formations to aid in the diagnosis. Based on your test results, our highly trained team will determine whether you have AMD and if so whether you have the wet or dry form. Then, we will provide treatments and maintenance strategies to not only prevent further vision loss but to also preserve the remaining vision you have.
Treatment options do vary depending on the form and the severity of your AMD. The dry form has no cure, but we can take steps to slow the progression. We can treat wet AMD, and we offer several treatment options, including steroids, laser surgery and photodynamic therapy (PDT).
Why You Should Choose Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania
Our Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania macular degeneration center of excellence is staffed by an expert team of ophthalmologists and other eye care specialists were trained at some of the world’s finest eye care medical facilities and are well-versed in the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques for AMD.
If it’s been a while since you’ve seen an eye care specialist and you are over age 50, it is a good idea to be checked for macular degeneration. Give our macular degeneration specialist in Pottstown PA a call today.
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