For those over the age of 60, age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of severe vision loss. The disease occurs when the small central portion of the retina — the macula — deteriorates. Because the retina is the eye's light-sensing nerve tissue, the result can be a loss of vision in the center of the visual field. At Acclaro Eye Care in North Oaks, Minnesota, we utilize the latest macular degeneration treatments to help our patients from Shoreview, and across the Minneapolis area, prevent vision loss.
Causes and Symptoms of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Dry Macular Degeneration
Wet Macular Degeneration
Macular Degeneration Treatment Options
There are two types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. Both form of the disease can lead to devastating vision loss. However, total blindness as a result of macular degeneration is very rare. Our experienced eye care professional, Dr. Daniel Conrad, stays up-to-date on the latest treatment advances, providing exceptional macular degeneration treatment to patient from Shoreview and across the Minneapolis area.
Most age related macular degeneration is a result of the "dry" form of the disease. Dry macular degeneration occurs as a result of tiny yellow deposits that develop beneath the macula. Patients with dry macular degeneration usually do not experience significant central vision loss, which is much more common in those with wet macular degeneration. However, the dry form of the disease can lead to the wet form, and should be attended to promptly.
Although only about 10 percent of macular degeneration patients experience the wet form of the disease, this group represents the largest proportion of cases leading to significant central vision loss. Wet macular degeneration is a result of blood vessels that grow beneath the macula. The presence of these blood vessels leads to the leaking of blood fluids, which subsequently causes retinal cells to die and leads to blurred vision and blank spots in the central field of vision.
Although there is no cure for macular degeneration, treatment can prevent severe vision loss and significantly improve the quality of one's life. The disease's progress can also be slowed considerably. If you believe you may be experiencing age related macular degeneration, our staff in North Oaks serving those from Shoreview and across the Minneapolis area has the experience needed to develop the best course of action for your particular case.
Vitamins: A number of studies have shown the benefit of certain vitamins when combating macular degeneration. Specially formulated vitamin supplements may be able to help you prevent vision loss.
Anti-Angiogenesis Drugs: New Drugs have been developed that can slow, or even prevent, the growth of abnormal blood vessels.
If you would like to learn more about our practice providing macular degeneration treatment to those in Shoreview and across Minneapolis, simply contact our office today.
Acclaro Eye Care
200 Village Center Drive
Suite 300
North Oaks, Minnesota 55127
Telephone: 651.484.EYES (3937)
Fax: 651.482.0896