senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(847) 904-2150

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration, also called AMD or age-related macular degeneration, occurs when the macula — the central portion of the retina — begins to wear down, causing central vision loss.

People who suffer from AMD tend to lose their “straight ahead” vision, making it difficult to read, drive, and recognize faces. 

Total vision loss is unlikely, as there's typically enough peripheral vision to allow for other activities of daily life. 

Man with macular degeneration


Types of Macular Degeneration:

macular degeneration types

  • Dry AMD: small deposits called drusen damage retinal nerve cells and reduce vision
  • Wet AMD: new blood vessels form that leak and release fluid that harms the macula. This is a more severe form of AMD that can more quickly cause vision loss.

Don’t Let AMD Rob You of Your Sight

An estimated 196 million people are living with macular degeneration worldwide. Although those affected by it rarely lose all their vision, the vast majority suffer from some degree of vision loss. 

While there is currently no cure for AMD, there are certain treatments that can slow its progression — and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

If you think you're at risk or are experiencing symptoms, contact Vision Central today. We can diagnose and help treat the disease.


Risk Factors for AMD

  • Aged 50+

    The onset of AMD usually happens over the age of 50 and increases substantially with time. For instance, a 2% risk at age 55 can turn into a 30% risk by age 75.

  • Lifestyle factors

    Smoking or eating a diet high in saturated fat can increase your risk of AMD. Furthermore, these habits increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease–two additional risk factors for AMD.

  • Obesity

    Research shows that people with a BMI of over 30 double their chances of developing AMD.

  • Family History

    If you have a close relative with AMD, you have a higher risk of developing this eye condition.


How to Stop the Progression of Macular Degeneration

While there isn’t yet a cure for AMD or an effective way of reversing vision loss that has already occurred, you can take certain steps and adopt new habits to slow the progression of the disease.

Furthermore, certain treatments can slow its progression and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

Talk to us about how you can slow the progression of the disease and avoid vision loss by contacting Vision Central today. 

Photograph


Macular Degeneration FAQs

What are the first signs of AMD?

You may have AMD and not know it. Typically, symptoms may not develop until the advanced stage of the eye disease.

First signs of AMD may include: 

  • Blurred vision
  • Blind spots or dark spots
  • Straight lines appearing distorted or wavy
  • Faded colors 

 For early detection and better outcomes, it's important to undergo regular eye exams at our eye clinic, especially if you have a family history of AMD or other risk factors. 

How common is macular degeneration?

Statistics indicate that 8.7% of the world population has macular degeneration. The rate of AMD is expected to increase from 196 million in 2022 to 288 million by 2040.

What is the best treatment for macular degeneration?

Currently, the most common treatment for wet AMD is the injection of medications called anti-VEGF agents. High levels of VEGF in the eye increase the formation of abnormal blood vessels that cause much of the damage in wet AMD.

Patient Reviews
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155 Reviews
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- Oct. 13, 2024
Dr. Kim is very knowledgeable and friendly. The technician who assisted was professional, kind and e... fficient. This practice has embraced the latest technology to assess and treat their patients. Great gem to have in the neighborhood!
- Sep. 25, 2024
It is a kind and easy to understand explanation.
- Jul. 17, 2024
Both doctors we've seen have been great and everyone is so nice at the office. We've had a great exp... erience in the 2 years going here.
- Jul. 03, 2024
How much does a hospital examination cost?
- Jun. 13, 2024
Dr Kim was very honest with me about feeling like I had the wrong prescription for my glasses. I fel... t like she was experienced clinically but also trust worthy. Most of her office staff was amazing and I really like feeling like I can go to them for help if I have issues to be addressed with billing, glasses, medical records, etc. Some of glasses selection seems a bit on the higher end in price (unsurprising for glenview) but they had more affordable options too.
- Feb. 05, 2024
It's an excellent optometrist place. Staff was polite and efficient. Quick but good eye exam and goo... d prices with insurance (MetLife). Glasses took a few days but great work. Overall great place and I can recommend.
- Jan. 22, 2024
The office staff is always accommodating. Dr. Mehta is very thorough & informative. There is plenty ... of parking available. We recommend this practice & we are so glad we found this office.
- Jan. 01, 2024
My experience at Vision Central was great and I will highly recommend them
- Nov. 23, 2023
Great experience from beginning to end. Knowledgeable staff...optician, Ken with years of experienc... e and thorough exam by Dr Mehta. Going back to pick a new frame from their large display of choices.
- Oct. 19, 2023
The staff at Vision Central are very knowledgeable nd super nice.
- Aug. 20, 2023
First time here and I was welcomed as me and my son walked in, staff was friendly. I recommend Visio... n Central
- Aug. 11, 2023
Good place
- Aug. 07, 2023
They are nice guys and professional
- Jul. 30, 2023
Very nice store, everyone was very professional and friendly.
- Jul. 11, 2023
The staff and Maria were extremely helpful in choosing my polarized glasses and contact lenses. The ... Doctor listened to my concerns regarding my vision. I highly recommend Vision Central!
- Jul. 06, 2023
I've been seeing Dr. Kim for two years now and she is the best!
- Jun. 02, 2023
Dr. Kim is so amazing and the rest of the staff here are very kind and helpful. Super happy with my ... new glasses <3
- Apr. 10, 2023
Vison Central in Glenview is great!!! Starting with Dr.Mehta, she is very knowledgeable, attentive a... nd really cares for her patients. The staff is professional, friendly and caring. Everyone was extremely helpful and kind during my visit. They have a good selection of frames and reasonable prices. I would definitely recommend others to go there.
- Mar. 19, 2023
I felt so welcome here. They answered all my question. The doctor was so friendly . All the staff we... re friendly. I recommend coming here .
- Jan. 05, 2023
Dr. Mehta is one of the best ophthalmologists

View All 155 Reviews

Macular Degeneration Treatment in Glenview

Our optometry practice in Glenview

Photograph of Sung Kim
Hours
  • Monday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • Medicaid
  • Anthem
  • EyeMed
  • MetLife
  • Blue Cross

senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

Don’t let AMD stop you from doing the things you love.

(847) 904-2150