Macular Degeneration
Detroit / Rochester Macular Degeneration Specialist
The slow progressive loss of the central vision is known as macular degeneration. This condition is generally caused by retinal degeneration that can occur with aging. The two varieties of macular degeneration are known as dry and wet. Dry macular degeneration blurs the central vision slowly over time and is not as severe as wet.
Wet macular degeneration can cause bleeding or leaking blood vessels and unwanted new blood vessels may grow in the macula. The loss of vision comes much more quickly and surgery is usually required to slow it down or stop it. Legal blindness is a common result of wet macular degeneration and laser surgery saves what is left of the macula, but won’t necessarily restore normal vision.
Research continues to find causes and cures, but currently no proven cure exists. Good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle is a good start in protecting yourself from damage to the macula.
Early detection plays an important role in managing macular degeneration and protecting long-term vision. Comprehensive eye examinations are essential for identifying changes in eye health as early as possible, often before noticeable symptoms develop.
A complete eye exam can also help detect other serious eye conditions, including glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, while allowing for accurate evaluation of refractive errors such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and presbyopia. Identifying these conditions early makes it possible to monitor progression, adjust vision prescriptions, and guide patients toward appropriate care options.
Regular eye examinations support proactive eye health management and help ensure patients receive timely guidance, education, and referrals when needed.
