Age-related macular degeneration, also known as AMD, is one of the leading causes of blindness in the U.S. It is a common eye disease associated with aging that gradually and painlessly destroys sharp central vision.

The “macula” is the light-sensitive part of the retina responsible for clear, sharp vision in the central visual field. While patients with glaucoma typically report “tunnel” vision, patients with AMD report the opposite. Their peripheral vision remains intact, but there is a hole in the center of their visual field.

Chart Showing a Healthy Eye Compared to One With Macular Degeneration

There are two types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. In the “wet” form of AMD, abnormal tiny blood vessels behind the retina grow toward the macula, leaking blood and fluid. This causes rapid and severe vision loss and often renders the patient legally blind. The most common form (approximately 90 percent) of macular degeneration is “dry” AMD. It is considered the less serious form of AMD, but still requires close observation, as dry macular degeneration can easily progress to “wet” AMD. Fortunately, there have been many advances in treatment observational techniques for “wet” AMD, allowing many patients to retain central vision long-term.

Early warning signs of AMD including blurry, dark, or missing areas in the center of the vision. Colors beginning to look different, and straight lines appear wavy. A general decline in vision may also indicate the beginning of a problem, so it’s important to get an eye examination from an ophthalmologist as soon as any changes in vision are noted. People over the age of 65 are more likely to be diagnosed with AMD, and more women than men get the disease. Other risk factors include having a family member with AMD, smoking, high blood pressure, farsightedness and obesity. The eye doctors at RGB Cataract and LASIK recommend that people who are at risk for macular degeneration eat plenty of green leafy vegetables, exercise regularly, and stop smoking.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

At RGB Cataract and LASIK , our experienced ophthalmologists work with you to evaluate the severity of your macular degeneration and will recommend a personalized treatment plan. During your initial appointment, a trained technician will perform several diagnostic tests. These may include:

  • A standard eye chart test to measure visual acuity
  • A grid test to determine the severity of the “hole” in your visual field
  • An OCT (optical coherence tomography) test performs cross-sectional imaging using light to measure layers of the retina and optic nerve in order to detect changes in pathology
  • Pupil dilation, which increases the size of the pupil and allows for assessing the health of the entire eye

You can be assured that our doctors will take the time to listen to all of your concerns and work with you every step of the way in developing a treatment plan that makes you comfortable.

Contact Us Today For More Information

RGB Cataract and LASIK is conveniently located off Highway 75 North in Sherman, Texas. Call 903-892-3282 to schedule an appointment.

RGB Cataract and LASIK. For the treatment you and your eyes deserve.

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RGB Cataract & LASIK

1625 Highway 75 North,
Sherman, TX 75090

Phone: (903) 892-3282


Toll-Free Available for All Locations
800-733-8679

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