Newport Beach AMD Specialist

If you are having eyesight issues, you may want to consider consulting a Newport Beach AMD specialist. At Retina Eye Associates of Orange County, we specialize in retinal degenerative diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, also referred to as AMD. If you have been diagnosed with macular degeneration, contact an AMD Specialist in Newport Beach from our group to find out more about treatment options.

What Is AMD?

Age-related macular degeneration can occur to people who are over the age of 50, and usually affects those who are 65 or older. AMD causes a gradual, painless loss of vision, although the degree of vision loss varies by patient.

AMD affects the center of the field of vision, not a person’s peripheral vision. People who are suffering from AMD do not usually notice any changes until they are engaging in activities which require central vision such as reading or driving.

Symptoms of AMD

In the early stages of AMD, a person may notice a decrease in the brightness and intensity of colors as well as warping or distortion of straight lines. As the disease worsens, many people suffer from blurry and dark areas in the center of their vision and a loss of central vision. This loss can be gradual or it can come on suddenly.

Treatable AMD

There are two types of age-related macular degeneration that a seasoned Newport Beach AMD specialist can treat.

The most common form a patient may have is dry macular degeneration, where the center of the retina is deteriorating. Approximately 95 percent of patients have this type of AMD.
The second type is wet macular degeneration. When a patient is suffering from this type, there are leaky blood vessels growing under the retina. Occasionally, dry macular degeneration will turn into wet macular degeneration.

Risk Factors for AMD

Some of the risk factors for AMD that a Newport Beach AMD specialist will explain to his or her patients are genetics and aging, but hypertension, high cholesterol, and smoking may also contribute to the likelihood of contracting the disease.

Treatments for AMD

Unfortunately, there are few treatment options for AMD. However, as the population continues to age and the number of people who develop AMD increases, there are more studies devoted to finding helpful treatment solutions.

Some of these studies have revealed that anti-oxidants and carotenoids can help slow down the progression of AMD when it reaches an intermediate phase. Incorporating copper, zinc, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E have garnered positive results.

There have also been positive results for wet macular degeneration using laser photocoagulation or photodynamic therapy (PDT), as well as a new class of drugs (called anti-VEGF).

A Newport Beach AMD specialist from Retina Eye Associates of Orange County can explain all the treatment options that we offer and which ones may be most helpful for your condition.

If you think you may be suffering from age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, it might be wise to speak with a Newport Beach AMD specialist who is familiar with the condition and can educate you about it. AMD causes severe vision loss in people over age 50; while it is gradual and typically painless, it affects central vision in a way that can be debilitating. While there are few treatment options for this condition, the specialists of Retina Associates of Orange County can offer you specialists who know the best ways of dealing with its onset.

When you consult with an AMD specialist in Newport Beach, you will learn that there are two main kinds of AMD:

The “dry” form. This kind of macular degeneration results from yellow deposits called drusen that arise in the eye’s macula. While the drusen themselves do not necessarily lead to changes in vision, their growth can cause dimmed or distorted vision. Blind spots can ensue, and in more advanced cases, patients with the dry form of AMD can lose their central vision.
The “wet” form. This kind of macular degeneration results from abnormal blood vessels growing beneath the macula. As they leak fluid and blood into the retina, they cause distorted vision, blind spots, and loss of central vision. Their scarring eventually leads to permanent central vision loss.

Most people diagnosed with AMD have the dry form, and thus do not tend to lose their central vision. However, it is possible for the dry form of AMD to lead to the wet form, from which serious vision loss tends to ensue. That’s why it is so crucial to schedule regular visits with your eye doctor and, if you have or think you may have developed AMD, to seek an experienced Newport Beach AMD specialist.

Symptoms of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

It’s important to be aware of what the regular symptoms of AMD are, and perhaps more so, to note that the early stages of macular degeneration can be asymptomatic. One of the first signs that patients notice is a distorted appearance of straight lines.

When you meet with a Newport Beach AMD specialist, you will find that the other main symptoms of AMD include:

Distorted center of vision;
Appearance of dark and blurry or whited-out areas in the center of vision; and
Altered or diminished perception of color.

Newport AMD Specialist Infographic

Newport Beach AMD Statistics

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 20 million Americans aged 40 and older have age-related macular degeneration (AMD), with 1.49 million of those having vision-threatening late-stage AMD.

If you have been diagnosed with AMD or are having vision issues, call our office to meet with a Newport Beach AMD specialist and find out what treatment options may be available for you.

Because these symptoms are so slow to arise, it’s important to prioritize early detection of AMD. Usually, a Newport Beach AMD specialist will diagnose AMD through a routine eye exam, where eye doctors are able to detect drumen beneath the retina. Another method of diagnosis your specialist may use is the Amsler grid test, which shows a pattern of straight lines; AMD could be diagnosed through this test if some of the lines appear wavy or seem to be missing.

An AMD Specialist Newport Beach Trusts

If you are coping with any of these frustrating early symptoms of AMD, or suspect that you may be at risk for the condition, it’s vital that you not wait to speak with a vision specialist. Retina Associates of Orange County is a highly-recommended and board-certified group of ophthalmologists who takes pride in giving each of our patients the utmost in skill and care. When you’re ready to schedule an appointment with a Newport Beach AMD specialist who can help restore your vision, give our Newport Beach office a call at 949-793-7181.

What You Should Know About AMD

As a Newport Beach AMD specialist can explain, AMD is a common eye condition that affects the central part of the retina, leading to gradual vision loss. It is more prevalent among older adults and can significantly impact daily activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces. Here are five key points to know about age-related macular degeneration:

Types of AMD

AMD can be classified into two types: dry AMD and wet AMD.

Dry AMD: This is the most common type, accounting for about 85-90% of cases. It involves the gradual deterioration of the macula, leading to the formation of small yellow deposits called drusen. Dry AMD progresses slowly and may cause mild to moderate vision loss.
Wet AMD: Also known as neovascular AMD, this type is less common but more severe. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the macula, leaking fluid and blood and causing rapid vision loss. Wet AMD can lead to severe vision impairment if not promptly treated.

Risk Factors

Several factors contribute to the development and progression of AMD:

Age: AMD is more common in individuals aged 50 and older.
Family History: Having a family history of AMD increases the risk of developing the condition.
Smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of AMD.
Race and Ethnicity: Caucasians are at higher risk compared to other ethnic groups.
Cardiovascular Disease: Hypertension, high cholesterol, and obesity can contribute to the development of AMD.

Symptoms

The early stages of AMD may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, individuals may experience:

Blurred or distorted central vision
Difficulty recognizing faces
Reduced color perception
Increased sensitivity to glare
Dark or empty areas in the center of vision

Diagnosis and Treatment

Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing AMD. Regular comprehensive eye exams are essential, particularly for individuals over the age of 50 or with risk factors. During an eye exam, an ophthalmologist will evaluate the retina and macula and may perform additional tests such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) to assess the severity of the condition. While there is no cure for AMD, treatments can help slow its progression and manage symptoms:

Dry AMD: Currently, there is no specific treatment for dry AMD, but lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, and regular monitoring can be beneficial.
Wet AMD: Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections, laser therapy, and photodynamic therapy are commonly used to manage wet AMD by inhibiting abnormal blood vessel growth and reducing leakage.

Lifestyle Modifications

Certain lifestyle modifications may help reduce the risk of AMD or slow its progression:

Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish.
Maintain a healthy weight and manage cardiovascular risk factors.
Protect your eyes from UV radiation by wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.
Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
Monitor and manage chronic health conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.

Early detection, regular eye exams, and a healthy lifestyle are key to managing AMD effectively. If you notice any changes in your vision or have concerns about your eye health, it is essential to consult with a Newport Beach AMD specialist for evaluation and guidance. Contact Retina Associates of Orange County to schedule an initial consultation.

Contact a Newport Beach AMD Specialist Today

If you are concerned with eyesight issues and would like to meet with an AMD specialist Newport Beach patients recommend, contact Retina Eye Associates of Orange County at 949-706-351 to set up an appointment to discuss your concerns with an experienced Newport Beach AMD specialist.

Newport Beach AMD Specialist FAQs

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss among people over 50 as a Newport Beach AMD specialist can explain. As people age, they often have questions about this condition. Learn the five most commonly asked questions about AMD, and then contact the Retina Eye Associates of Orange County to schedule an appointment:

1. What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

AMD is an eye condition that affects the macula, a small area near the center of the retina responsible for clear, detailed vision. There are two types of AMD: Dry (atrophic) and Wet (neovascular). Dry AMD is more common and is characterized by the thinning of the macula. Wet AMD is less common but more severe and is caused by the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina.

2. What are the symptoms of AMD?

Early-stage AMD may not show noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, people may experience a gradual or sudden change in vision quality. This may include blurriness, dark spots, distortion, or loss in central vision. Peripheral vision is usually not affected. It’s important to have regular eye examinations to detect AMD early, as visual changes may not be noticeable until the disease advances. A Newport Beach AMD specialist can be very helpful in detecting this early if you have concerns.

3. What causes AMD?

While the exact cause is unknown, AMD is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Aging is the most significant risk factor, but others include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and a family history of AMD. Some studies also suggest that prolonged exposure to sunlight may contribute to the condition.

4. How is AMD diagnosed and treated?

AMD is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, which can include a visual acuity test, dilated eye exam, and imaging tests such as Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). Dry AMD currently has no cure, but progression can be slowed through lifestyle changes and nutritional supplements. Wet AMD can be treated with medications injected into the eye, laser therapy, or photodynamic therapy to slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels. Early detection is vital for effective treatment. If your eyes are not behaving normally, it is important to see a doctor right away.

5. Can AMD be prevented?

While you cannot control some risk factors like age and genetics, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in leafy greens and fish, not smoking, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and protecting your eyes from excessive sunlight exposure.

Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and treatment, allowing those with the condition to maintain an active and independent lifestyle for as long as possible. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or an ophthalmologist for more personalized information about AMD. Contact a Newport Beach AMD specialist at the Retina Eye Associates of Orange County to schedule an appointment.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye condition that affects the macula, the central portion of the retina responsible for sharp and detailed vision. An AMD specialist is a medical professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating this specific eye disorder. They possess specialized knowledge and skills to provide comprehensive care for patients afflicted with AMD, offering tailored treatment plans and guidance to manage the condition’s impact on their vision and quality of life.

Treatment Options For AMD

The treatment of AMD aims to slow down or halt the progression of the disease and alleviate its symptoms. Two main types of AMD exist: dry AMD and wet AMD. Dry AMD, the more common of the two, currently has no cure, but AMD specialists can recommend nutritional supplements, lifestyle adjustments, and monitoring strategies to preserve vision and manage its effects. For wet AMD, a variety of treatment options exist, including intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drugs that can inhibit the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina. Laser therapy may also be employed in certain cases to target and destroy these abnormal vessels.

At-Risk Population: Identifying Vulnerable Individuals

Certain factors can increase an individual’s risk of developing AMD. Age is a significant factor, as the risk of AMD increases with advancing age, particularly after the age of 50. Genetics also play a role; individuals with a family history of AMD are more susceptible to the condition. Smoking, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and a diet lacking in essential nutrients like antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids are additional risk factors. People with light-colored eyes and fair skin are also at a slightly higher risk of developing AMD.

Recognizing Symptoms: When To Seek Help

Recognizing the symptoms of AMD is crucial for seeking timely medical attention. Common symptoms of AMD include blurry or distorted central vision, the appearance of dark spots in the central field of vision, difficulty recognizing faces, and challenges with reading or performing tasks that require sharp focus. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if you are over the age of 50 or possess other risk factors, it is advisable to consult an eye doctor promptly.

Retina Associates of Orange County, Newport Beach AMD Specialist

360 San Miguel Dr., Suite 407
Newport Beach, CA 92660

Consulting An Eye Doctor: The Importance Of Regular Eye Examinations

Regular eye examinations are pivotal in the early detection and management of AMD. Even if no symptoms are present, individuals at risk of AMD, such as those with a family history or certain lifestyle habits, should undergo comprehensive eye exams at recommended intervals. Eye doctors, including optometrists and ophthalmologists, possess the expertise to diagnose AMD through a variety of tests, including visual acuity assessments, dilated eye examinations, and retinal imaging. Early detection allows for timely intervention and the implementation of preventive measures that can significantly impact the course of the disease.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration is a progressive eye condition that demands specialized care from AMD specialists. These professionals are equipped to deliver tailored treatments for both dry and wet AMD, aiming to slow the progression of the disease and alleviate its impact on vision. Identifying those at risk of AMD is essential, as age, genetics, and lifestyle factors can increase vulnerability. Recognizing the symptoms prompts timely intervention, making it vital to consult an eye doctor if any signs of AMD are observed. Routine eye examinations remain a cornerstone of managing AMD, allowing for early detection and comprehensive care that can ultimately preserve vision and enhance quality of life.

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