Our Macular Degeneration Specialist Helps You See For Life
Age-related macular degeneration is the most common cause of vision loss for people over 65 years old. It’s estimated that over 10 million Americans are affected by this condition, many of whom suffer a loss of independence that increases as their visual abilities decrease. Professional, specialized treatment can mitigate the effects of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and help preserve your central vision. Our Huntington Beach, CA AMD specialist treats macular degeneration and helps restore your enjoyment of life and independence.
The experts at Retina Associates of Orange County use advanced medical techniques, the best equipment, and tried-and-true methods to treat both the cause of AMD and its symptoms. We create a personalized care plan that considers your lifestyle, overall health, and needs. Schedule your visit today by phone or our convenient online booking tool.
Understanding AMD, Its Causes, And Successful Treatments
Macular degeneration is the breakdown of the macula, or central retina. As the condition progresses, it impacts your central vision, which is necessary for reading, driving, and generally moving around. Left untreated, AMD leads to a complete loss of central vision.
While the exact cause of macular degeneration is unclear, there is a causative link between environmental and genetic factors. Smoking and uncontrolled hypertension are two of the strongest factors that determine whether someone will develop macular degeneration. Left untreated, AMD often leads to blindness in people over 65.
Our Huntington Beach AMD specialist treats both types of macular degeneration: wet and dry. Our clinicians carefully explore the type of AMD you have and work with your primary care physician to develop a treatment plan that does not conflict with your other conditions or medication regimen.
How Our Ophthalmologists Treat Age-Related Macular Degeneration
We employ the latest technology for treating AMD, including delicate surgery to repair physical damage.
If you notice spots in your central vision that obstruct your vision when you’re driving or reading, schedule an appointment with our experts immediately.
If your condition is still in the “dry phase” and has not yet advanced to wet macular degeneration, care typically begins with noninvasive treatment like nutritional therapy, which can help increase your body’s supply of valuable cell-supporting vitamins and minerals. You may see improvement by adding natural antioxidants to your diet through whole foods or healthy supplements.
If your condition has progressed to the wet phase, or if non-invasive techniques fail to arrest the progression of your macular degeneration, we may recommend intraocular injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF is a chemical that prevents your body from developing abnormal blood vessels in the eye. We use a concentrated dose crafted specifically for you and inject it directly into your eye.
We know this sounds a little scary, but in truth, these injections can be completed in a single, short office visit. Our clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, is sterile, and our optometrists, nurses, and physician assistants are professionally trained in this and other specialized techniques.
At Retina Associates of Orange County, we’re dedicated to helping people like you improve their quality of life with expertly performed treatments for age-related macular degeneration. You can get started with a quick phone call to our Huntington Beach AMD specialist.