Macular Degeneration Management in Oshkosh & Menasha, WI
Macular degeneration is also known as age-related macular degeneration, or AMD. The condition results in loss of your central vision. At Wisconsin Eye Consultants in Menasha, WI, we're here to offer macular degeneration treatment that can help to preserve your vision.
How Common is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 60. The risk of developing macular degeneration increases to 1 in 3 people if you are 75 or older, according to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation.
Types of Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is classified into two types: dry macular degeneration, accounting for 85-90% of cases and resulting from age-related thinning of the macula, and wet macular degeneration, accounting for 10-15% of cases and resulting from abnormal blood vessels growing under the retina.
Risk Factors for Developing Macular Degeneration
There are several factors which increase your risk of developing macular degeneration, including:
- Eating a high saturated fat diet
- Being overweight or obese
- Smoking
- Being over 50 years old
- Having high blood pressure
- Having a family history of AMD
How Macular Degeneration is Diagnosed
Macular degeneration is typically diagnosed during an eye examination. Your ophthalmologist will have you look at a grid, noting any areas of blurred or distorted vision, or blank spots. Your ophthalmologist will also look at the retina and macula of your eyes through a special lens. You may also need imaging known as optical coherence tomography, or OCT, to scan the retina and macula.
How Macular Degeneration is Treated
To treat dry macular degeneration, your ophthalmologist may recommend medication to potentially slow vision loss. To treat wet macular degeneration, your ophthalmologist may recommend medications to reduce the number of abnormal blood vessels, and slow blood vessel leakage. Laser surgery may also be advised to reduce abnormal blood vessels and slow leakage.
Want to Know More about Macular Degeneration?
At Wisconsin Eye Consultants in Menasha & Oshkosh, WI, we'll create a macular degeneration treatment plan to preserve your vision for as long as possible. Reach out to schedule an appointment today at (920) 806-3005.