February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration Month, but What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (or AMD)?
AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in the U.S. affecting more than 10 million Americans, which is more than cataracts and glaucoma combined. Macular Degeneration is caused by the deterioration of the central portion of the retina, the inside back layer of the eye that records the images we see and sends them via the optic nerve from the eye to the brain. The retina’s central portion, known as the macula, is responsible for focusing central vision in the eye, and it controls our ability to read, drive a car, recognize faces or colors, and see objects in fine detail. In early stages, macular degeneration does not affect vision. Later, if the disease progresses, people experience wavy or blurred vision, and, if the condition continues to worsen, central vision may be completely lost. People with very advanced macular degeneration are considered legally blind.
Our Retina Specialists evaluate and treat patients with macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachments, flashers and floaters and other retinal disorders. For more information, visit https://www.loeye.com/services/retina-services
