Diagnosing macular degeneration

In Americans over 60 years of age, macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss. According to the National Eye Institute, approximately 11 million Americans have age-related macular degeneration. The prevalence of macular degeneration has increased dramatically and the most significant risk factor is age. 

Diagnosing macular degeneration in Olympia

The number of people living with early-stage macular degeneration in the US was estimated to be 18 million in 2019 while the number of people living with late-stage macular degeneration was estimated to be 1.5 million.

Are you looking for an optometrist near you for advanced diagnostics and care for macular degeneration? We welcome you to schedule an evaluation at American Family Vision Clinic. Our optometrists have extensive experience and the latest technology to provide advanced diagnosis and treatment for macular degeneration to patients from Olympia and the surrounding communities. To schedule an eye exam call us at (360) 491-2121 or Book an Appointment .

American Family Vision Clinic

What is macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is often referred to as "age-related macular degeneration" because it is more common in older individuals. However, it is not a normal part of aging and can occur at any age.

Macular degeneration is a serious eye condition that affects the central portion of the retina, known as the macula. The macula is responsible for providing clear, sharp vision, and when it is damaged, it can result in serious vision loss. If you are experiencing any changes in your vision or other symptoms of macular degeneration, it is important to visit a qualified eye doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How is macular degeneration diagnosed?

Diagnosing macular degeneration typically involves a comprehensive eye exam. This may include testing your visual acuity, or the clarity of your vision, as well as examining the health of your retina and macula. Your eye doctor may also use specialized imaging tests, such as fundus photography, dark matter adaptation, or optical coherence tomography (OCT), to assess the health of your macula and detect any signs of damage or disease.

In addition to the eye exam, your eye doctor may ask about your medical history and any risk factors you may have for macular degeneration, such as age, family history, or lifestyle habits.

Once you've been diagnosed with macular degeneration, our eye doctor will work with you to monitor the condition and ensure that if there are signs of progression you are referred to a retinal specialist for a treatment plan to help slow the progression of the disease and preserve your vision. This may include medications, lifestyle changes, or specialized therapies, such as intravitreal injections.

How is macular degeneration diagnosed?

Common symptoms of macular degeneration

  • Blurred or distorted central vision
  • Difficulty reading or performing other tasks that require fine vision
  • Decreased ability to see colors accurately or colors may seem brighter than normal
  • A dark or empty area in the center of your field of vision
  • Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted
  • Difficulty adjusting to changes in light 
  • Problems with driving at night 
  • Trouble seeing in low light 

Early detection and treatment can help to preserve your vision and maintain good eye health. To schedule an eye exam, please call (360) 491-2121.

 

The role of a low vision optometrist for macular degeneration 

A low vision optometrist works hand in hand with your retinal specialist to ensure that you are maximizing your remaining vision. While the Ophthalmologist or retinal specialist is ensuring that the disease does not progress, the low vision optometrist is helping the patient use their remaining vision to its full potential. It is important to visit a low vision optometrist even if you have earlier stages of macular degeneration.

Types of macular degeneration

Macular degeneration can be classified into two types: dry and wet. Dry macular degeneration is the most common form of the disease and is characterized by the gradual thinning and atrophy of the macula. This type of macular degeneration usually progresses slowly and can lead to vision loss over time. Wet macular degeneration is a more aggressive form of the disease and is characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the macula. These blood vessels can leak fluid or blood, leading to rapid vision loss and scarring of the macula. Wet macular degeneration is less common, but it is more likely to cause severe vision loss.

How is macular degeneration diagnosed?

How can I find a low vision optometrist near me?

If you are searching for a low vision optometrist, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced professional. A local optometrist or local eye doctor that specializes in low vision and has experience with helping patients who have macular degeneration can provide you with the necessary care and support to manage your eye health and utilize your vision to its full potential. Simply search for "low vision eye doctor near me" or "low vision optometrist near me" to find a list of eye doctors in your area. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family, or consult with your primary care doctor for a referral.

Common Questions

Unfortunately, there is no cure for macular degeneration. However, there are treatments available that can slow the progression of the disease and help to preserve vision. Our eye doctors will help you understand the treatment options, provide you with a referral to a trusted Ophthalmologist if needed, and guide you on the important steps that you should take to reduce risks and maximize your remaining vision. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with macular degeneration, or if you have risk factors for macular degeneration, call us to schedule an evaluation today at (360) 491-2121. We are proud to be a leading provider of advanced eye care conveniently located in Olympia.
There are several risk factors for macular degeneration, including age, genetics, smoking, and a diet low in antioxidants. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with macular degeneration or are over the age of 50 and have any of the risk factors listed above, call us to schedule an evaluation today at (360) 491-2121. We are proud to be a leading provider of advanced eye care for patients from Olympia, Lakewood, Tacoma, and Lacey.
Are you looking for an optometrist near you for macular degeneration? We welcome you to schedule an evaluation at American Family Vision Clinic. Our optometrists have extensive experience and the latest technology to provide advanced diagnosis and care for macular degeneration to patients from Olympia and the surrounding communities. To schedule an eye exam call us at (360) 491-2121 or Book an Appointment .
Diagnosing macular degeneration
Dr. Zurcher cartoon

Schedule a medical eye exam for macular degeneration in Olympia

We are proud to be a leading provider of advanced medical and specialty eyecare in Olympia. Our eye doctors have extensive experience helping patients with macular degeneration, and our office boasts advanced technology for early diagnosis and effective management of eye disease. If you have a family history of macular degeneration and live in or near Olympia, call us at (360) 491-2121 to schedule an eye exam today.

Testimonials


Such a nice optician. My grandson is only 4 and needs glasses. We were so sad, but he explained the issues, and we will follow up as he suggested.


Anna P.

I had such a good experience with the clinic. Very friendly staff and doctor, did not have to wait for long to be called, and was treated respectfully. Thanks, American Family.


June S.

Dr. Zurcher has gone above and beyond what any other eye doctor has ever done to figure out what is going on with my eyes. Very happy with American Family Vision.


Christine R.

Family Vision Clinic changed our lives! My daughter was frequently car sick, and she was getting headaches every day, often painful enough that they brought her to tears. We saw a string of doctors and therapists, but we made no progress. Finally, we found Dr. Levi Zurcher and his eye therapist Rain. After ten weeks of eye therapy my daughter no longer gets headaches, and she no longer gets car sick. Daily tears are a thing of the past. I really can’t say enough about this clinic. It was fascinating to watch Dr. Zurcher work. For the first time, someone who knew what they were doing was intently studying my daughter, really trying to figure out all of her eye issues, and his therapist Rain is one of the most patient and lovely people that I’ve ever had the good fortune to meet. We’re finished with eye therapy—yay!—and I have switched to American Family Vision Clinic for all of my family’s other eye health needs.


Lars Wulff

Very professional, yet kind and helpful. They do what they can to make the appointment comfortable. I was running a bit late, I made sure ti call. They were able to switch me with a patient who was already there, they treated me with respect, and helped my son have confidence by getting him the eye care he needed that day. Thank you so much! Would recommend to anyone. It's a blessing that they care enough to work with people who have all different types of insurance from work to state coverage.


Justin E.

The staff is friendly. The Doc is very knowledgeable. The office is family friendly and everyone is so patient with the little ones.


Amy Fagerness
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