If you are having eye problems and suspect age-related macular degeneration, you should consider speaking to an AMD specialist Orange County CA has to offer.
How AMD Can Affect Your Vision
Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is a common condition of the eye and often affects people over the age of 50. It is a leading cause of vision loss, the result of a damaged macula. The macula is a small area around the center of the retina and is responsible for sharp, central vision.
AMD usually advances very slowly meaning that, unlike other eye conditions, loss of vision does not happen immediately. However, this is not always true. There are times when AMD progresses rapidly leaving very little time for an Orange County AMD specialist to treat one or both eyes.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should see an AMD specialist Orange County CA respects as soon as possible.
- Blank spots in your central vision;
- Blurred areas near the center of vision;
- Distorted central vision;
- Objects not being as bright as they used to be;
- Inability to see fine details;
- Inability to see up close or at a distance; and
- Inability to recognize people’s faces (in severe cases).
Types of AMD
An AMD specialist Orange County CA patients rely on may explain the two different types of AMD during a consultation. The following is a general explanation to better understand the condition.
Dry AMD – Most people, around 75%, have dry or early, AMD. This develops when a build up of waste material forms underneath the macula. As a result, this area becomes thin and weak. In general, people who have dry AMD experience mild symptoms and are not at risk for vision loss. It is good idea to have an annual checkup with an AMD specialist Orange County CA recommends to ensure the symptoms are not worsening.
Wet AMD – Wet AMD happens when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina eventually leaking blood and fluid around the area causing improper functioning. This can lead to bleeding, scarring, and vision loss.
Detecting and Treating AMD
When you see an AMD specialist in Orange County CA, he or she may recommend you undergo various examinations to confirm an accurate diagnosis. In general, early and intermediate stages of AMD have no symptoms, which is why you should see an eye doctor every year from the age of 50 and over (or younger when you have eye problems). Your exam may consist of an:
- Visual acuity test;
- Dilated eye exam;
- Amsler grid;
- Fluorescein angiogram; and
- Optical coherence tomography.
An AMD specialist in Orange County CA can explain the details of these exams during your appointment at the Retina Associates of Orange County. Treatments for wet AMD may include intravitreal injections, eye drops, and in certain cases laser treatment.
What to Ask an AMD Specialist Orange County CA Can Rely On
If you are planning on seeing an AMD specialist, there are a few questions you might want to ask him or her to help you to understand AMD, your diagnosis, and the treatment protocols. Some questions include:
- What is my diagnosis?
- Can the type of AMD I have be treated?
- Will my vision be affected now or in the future?
- Are there any symptoms I should watch for?
- How often should I have a follow up appointment with you?
- Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to decrease the symptoms?
If you are ready to schedule an appointment with an AMD specialist Orange County CA residents depend on for quality treatment, please contact the Retina Associates of Orange County by calling 949-777-5011.