Macular Degeneration Specialist
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Ventura Eye Institute, Inc.
LASIK Surgeons & Ophthalmologists located in Camarillo, CA
Older Americans are affected by macular degeneration at high rates, and it’s the leading cause of vision impairment among them. If you’re over age 50 and have noticed a decline in your vision, the providers at Ventura Eye Institute in Camarillo, California, can determine if you have macular degeneration and design a treatment plan. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone today. Ventura Eye Institute welcomes patients in the following surrounding areas: Ventura, Oxnard, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, and the greater Ventura County.
Macular Degeneration
What is macular degeneration?
In your retina, the macula is the central area that helps your eyes see sharply. This area helps you recognize faces, read, drive, watch television, and any other task that requires keen vision.
There are two types of macular degeneration: dry macular degeneration and wet macular degeneration. Wet macular degeneration accounts for about 10% of cases, and it involves the growth of new blood vessels beneath your retina that leak fluid and blood. This can result in blind spots and light sensitivity.
Dry macular degeneration is much more common and involves the thinning of your macular tissues. It can also involve pigment accumulation in your macula, resulting in cloudy or blind spots caused by debris in your eyes.
Am I at risk for developing macular degeneration?
Macular degeneration often develops with age. If you’re over age 50, you have about a 2% chance of developing the condition. Risk factors include:
- Genetics
- Obesity or inactivity
- Smoking
- Being female
- Being white
- Having a lighter eye color
- Drug side effects
If you notice a change in your vision, you should have your eyes checked. If you are at a higher risk, macular degeneration may be at fault for the changes in your vision.
What are my treatment options?
While macular degeneration has no cure, there are several treatment options that can stall its development or even improve your vision. Your provider will decide the best course of treatment for your case depending on what stage the condition is in. Treatment options include:
Medications
There are several medications available to slow the progression of macular degeneration. Some are best used to treat dry macular degeneration, while other work better to treat wet macular degeneration.
Photocoagulation
Photocoagulation works best to treat wet macular degeneration. For this treatment, your provider uses a laser to seal off blood vessels to stop them from leaking fluid.
If you’ve been diagnosed with macular degeneration or think you may have it, call or schedule an appointment online with Ventura Eye Institute to explore your treatment options.
