Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is an eye disease that usually occurs in adults over the age of 50. The macula is the part of the eye that provides central, detailed vision. Macular degeneration causes your central vision to be distorted and blurry, but side vision remains intact. There are two types of macular degeneration.

Dry Macular Degeneration is the most common type. In the early stages, there are no visual changes seen. Over time, your central vision may become distorted. You may notice wavy lines and blank spots in the center of your vision. There is no treatment to restore vision lost from dry macular degeneration. Dr. Schneider recommends the following treatment for Dry Macular Degeneration: Eye Vitamins (AREDS 2), no smoking, avoiding ultraviolet light by wearing sunglasses, eating dark leafy greens and colorful fruits and vegetables, and monitoring your vision daily with an Amsler Grid. The AREDS 2 eye vitamins have been shown to decrease the progression to the wet type by about 25%. Daily monitoring of your vision with an Amsler Grid can detect early progression to the wet type. Early treatment of wet macular degeneration is essential in preserving your sight.

Wet Macular Degeneration is a more serious condition. Visual loss occurs quickly and is severe. You will notice dark spots, blank spots, wavy lines and dim vision in the center of your vision. There are various treatments that can slow the progression of wet macular degeneration such as injections of medication in the eye and laser treatments.