Macular Degeneration Treatment in Blandon, PA

If you have been told you may have age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and live or work in the Blandon, PA area, schedule an appointment with the top specialists at Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania to discuss treatment options.

Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania provides care for macular degeneration (AMD) in Berks, Lancaster, Lebanon, Montgomery and Schuylkill counties, using the latest techniques and treatments. Our doctors are board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and continually update their skills and knowledge to offer you the latest advancements in eye care.

• Meet Barry C. Malloy, MD
• Meet Michael Cusick, MD
• Meet Anastasia Traband, MD

Common Questions About Macular Degeneration

What is macular degeneration?

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition that affects the macula, the part of the retina that allows you to see fine detail to read or drive. There are two forms – wet and dry. Dry AMD is more common than wet AMD; nearly 90% of AMD patients are diagnosed with dry AMD. Wet AMD is considered advanced AMD and usually leads to more serious vision loss.

What are the symptoms of macular degeneration?

For dry AMD, the symptoms may include:

• Normally straight lines appear crooked, like looking through a fun-house mirror
• A dark or blind spot in the center of your field of vision
• Needing brighter light when reading or doing work up close
• Sensitivity to bright lights
• Printed words may get increasingly blurry
• Colors may seem less bright or intense
• You have difficulty recognizing faces

Can AMD occur in only one eye?

You can have dry or wet macular degeneration in only one eye, but this is usually during the beginning stage of the disease. Over time, it is highly likely you will develop AMD in the other eye as well.

Are elderly people the only ones who get macular degeneration?

No, not necessarily. Although the most common form of AMD is age-related, there are other forms of macular degeneration that can affect younger people.

Will continuing to read make my macular degeneration worse?

No; but you may find you become tired more quickly when reading because you have to concentrate more. You cannot hurt your eyes or wear them out faster by using them for normal tasks.

Is macular degeneration painful?

Macular degeneration is a painless eye condition. You may not even know you have the disease in its early stage. This is why we recommend regular visits to Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania so we can examine your retina for any early symptoms of the disease.

Are treatments available for AMD?

Currently, there is no form of medical treatment for dry AMD that can prevent vision loss, but studies show that taking certain vitamins and minerals may reduce the risk of developing advanced AMD. For wet AMD, the most popular treatment options include laser surgery, photodynamic therapy, and the painless injection of drugs that attempt to stop abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina.

For more information about macular degeneration and the available treatment options in Blandon, PA, contact Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania for an evaluation. We offer state-of-the-art care for patients who suffer from AMD.