Age-related macular degeneration is one of those eye diseases which feels no need to tell you that it has arrived. Much like glaucoma, it shows very few symptoms during its early stages, and by the time you notice the effect on your vision, your sight will be at least partially compromised.
Because there is no single trigger or cause of AMD, annual eye exams are the only way to spot and diagnose the condition early. Using the advanced imaging technology at Chestermere Optometry, we can make a diagnosis months – perhaps years – before your vision would normally be affected.
It is a naturally occurring degradation of the macula over time, and there’s no single trigger other than age. White and Asian individuals are more likely to develop the disease, due to genetics.
In Dry ARMD there is a thinning of the retinal pigment epithelium, as well as the accumulation of deposits called drusen. These both impair the retinas ability to see clearly. It does not typically progress as quickly as wet ARMD, but can still lead to vision loss.
New blood vessel growth at the macula causes leakage and bleeding which can severely impair vision.
Unfortunately there is no cure for either form of ARMD, though injections can be used for wet ARMD in attempt to seal off any leaking blood vessels. This can occasionally reverse some lost vision, but may be the most suitable option for retaining as much vision as possible. Dietary changes and eye nutritioncan also go a long way in preventing progression of the disease.
Drs Sanchez and Dr Haslam are experts in assessing images of your eyes and locating the tell-tale signs of serious eye diseases, using advanced imaging equipment like the ocular coherence tomography. Since the damage occurs around the macula, the retina in this part of the eye is examined in detail. We will also assess your visual acuity to see if your eyesight has been affected.
