Age-related macular degeneration, also known as AMD, is a deterioration of the macula, a small area comprising the central part of the retina. The macula is responsible for providing clear central vision and allows us to read, see fine detail, and see people’s faces. Age-related macular degeneration is the most common cause of severe loss of eyesight among people 50 and older.
This type is the most common. About 80% of those with AMD have the dry form. Its exact cause is unknown, although both genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a role. This happens as the light-sensitive cells in the macula slowly break down, generally one eye at a time. The loss of vision in this condition is usually slow and gradual. It is believed that the age-related damage of an important support membrane under the retina contributes to dry age-related macular degeneration.
Geographic Atrophy. Geographic atrophy is a medical term that refers to later-stage cases of dry age-related macular degeneration. Macular degeneration is an eye condition that affects the macula of your retina. It dramatically affects your central vision — what you see straight ahead. You’ll still have your peripheral vision — what you can see on all sides of the center.
Typically, geographic atrophy affects both eyes. If you have geographic atrophy, you’ll have blind spots in your central view, and your vision will lose some sharpness.
Though this type is less common, it usually leads to more severe vision loss in patients than dry AMD. It is the most common cause of severe loss of vision. Wet AMD happens when abnormal blood vessels start to grow beneath the retina. They leak fluid and blood — hence the name wet AMD — and can create a large blind spot in the center of the visual field.
Monday 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
All of our doctors here at Phoenixville Eyecare Specialists use the latest technology in diagnosing and treating macular degeneration. We will refer out to a retinal specialist if further treatment is needed.
