Age-Related Macular Degeneration

There are two types of AMD:

Macular degeneration may progress into dry (atrophic) macular degeneration or wet (exudative) macular degeneration.

Dry AMD is the initial stage of the disease. This condition rarely leads to severe vision problems or blindness. Visual changes often lead to the loss of function, which may cause a blind spot or scotoma in the central vision.

Wet AMD arises from Dry AMD and is characterized by the new abnormal blood vessels that grow under the retinal pigment epithelium, under the retina, or even within the retina. If untreated, Wet AMD may cause blind spots and, in severe cases, lead to vision loss.

Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Dry macular degeneration generally progresses slowly as drusen accumulate in the retina. This condition rarely leads to severe vision problems or blindness. While portions of the RPE continue to slowly transport wastes and nutrients, photoreceptors accrue damage over time. The number and size of drusen increase in the macula.

Visual changes often correlate with the loss of function of the corresponding areas of the retina. Sometimes large regions of cells are lost. This is known as geographic atrophy. Geographic atrophy may cause a blind spot or scotoma in the central vision.

If you have dry macular degeneration, you should tell your ophthalmologist about any changes in your vision immediately. Regular exams along with self-monitoring using the Amsler Grid or other devices are necessary for preserving your vision. Patients with dry macular degeneration can develop wet macular degeneration, for which effective treatment is available if instituted in a timely manner.

Aside from managing your risk factors and vitamin therapy, there is currently no other prevention or treatment for dry macular degeneration. Luckily, most people with dry macular degeneration do not progress to more advanced geographic atrophy or the wet form. Preventing dry macular degeneration or halting its progression are areas of intense research. VRMNY is actively participating in promising trials dedicated to this endeavor.

Read more: https://www.vrmny.com/conditions/age-related-macular-degeneration/

For more information about the Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York, our doctors, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lawrence A. Yannuzzi, MD, please contact our ophthalmology practice by number: (212) 861-9797.

Working Hours:
Monday-Friday: 8am–5pm

Payment: cash, check, credit cards.

Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York

950 3rd Ave 3rd floor,

New York, NY 10022

Office Tel # (212) 861-9797

Fax: (212) 628-0698

https://www.vrmny.com/

https://www.vrmny.com/locations/manhattan/

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Lenox Hill | Upper East Side | Midtown East | Upper West Side

10021 | 10022 | 10023