Macular Degeneration Leesburg, Eustis, Clermont

Macular degeneration, or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is the foremost cause of visual deterioration in the United States. If left untreated, the condition will eventually hamper your ability to perform tasks such as reading and driving. The eye care professionals at Total Eye Care Center can refer you to retina specialists, who can in turn help patients deal with this disease. A close relationship with your eye care doctor is your best defense against the potentially devastating effects of macular degeneration in Leesburg, Eustis, or Clermont.

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a weakening of the center of the retina, or macula. Even though it does not lead to complete blindness – peripheral vision is left intact – macular degeneration can harshly impact quality of life if left untreated. Those at highest risk of macular degeneration are over the age of 55, but studies have also suggested additional risk factors, including smoking, high cholesterol, and genetic history. Early detection is critical to effective treatment, but can be difficult because individuals typically don't experience pain, and regression can be gradual and subtle.

There are two types of macular degeneration: “wet” and “dry.” Dry macular degeneration is far more common, accounting for almost 90 percent of all cases. Dry macular degeneration occurs when deep layers of the retina deteriorate and form small tissue deposits, causing macula function to decrease and central vision to blur. Wet macular degeneration is a more serious form of the dry version. The body responds to the deterioration of the tissue by forming additional, abnormal blood vessels in the eye, which can leak blood and fluids under the retina and further impair vision.

While there is no absolute cure for either type of macular degeneration in Eustis, Leesburg, or Clermont, treatment may slow the deterioration process.

Macular Degeneration Symptoms

Symptoms of macular degeneration can reveal themselves in a spectrum of ways. Because the disease progresses slowly, you may not notice that your vision has deteriorated. Familiarize yourself with common warning signs of wet and dry macular degeneration, and learn when it’s critical that you schedule an appointment for a screening.

Macular Degeneration Treatment

Early identification and treatment of macular degeneration can slow deterioration and even improve vision. Learn how Total Eye Care Center can diagnose macular degeneration and what steps can be taken to temper the effects of AMD. Several types of treatment are available, and we can refer you to the appropriate specialist.

Contact Us to Learn More about Macular Degeneration

The information on this page does not replace consultation with a medical professional. If you'd like more information regarding macular degeneration treatment in the Eustis, Leesburg, or Clermont areas of Lake County, Florida, contact Total Eye Care Center.