senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(407) 351-3232

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 Bay Hill Eye Care 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 Bay Hill Eye Care 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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1133 Reviews
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- Aug. 23, 2024
This is a great facility, its beautiful, professional, and the staff are friendly and helpful. Dr. S... ean Coughlin has always been awesome and so kind. I've been a patient for many many years and would highly recommend.
- Aug. 17, 2024
Very knowledgeable, helpful and friendly.
- Aug. 10, 2024
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- May. 03, 2024
Excellent service at Bay Hill Eye Care.
- May. 02, 2024
Quick, friendly and on time!
- Apr. 24, 2024
Very professional
- Apr. 24, 2024
I had never gone to an eye doctor before, this was my first ever experience and everyone from the fr... ont desk to the doctor was so kind, respectful and quick to attend. For not knowing much I was very satisfied with the team and felt very comfortable.
- Apr. 23, 2024
Everyone is always kind and helpful. Dr. Coughing is an excellent doctor.
- Apr. 22, 2024
I recently had a new patient visit at this office and have absolutely no complaints. I had to resche... dule a few times and they were understanding each time. Once I finally made it to the appointment, the staff was friendly from beginning to end. The woman at the front desk was nice and helped get me checked in. The assistant that saw me for my appointment was also very friendly, she made me feel comfortable even though I was a little nervous for some reason. The doctor was very kind, and straightforward but not in a condescending way at all. When it came time to look at glasses, the man who helped me was very knowledgeable and friendly as well. He did not pressure me to buy anything or spend more, which I’ve experienced elsewhere. I’m happy to have found a new office and will be bringing my family with me. Thank you everyone!
- Apr. 19, 2024
(Translated by Google) I loved !! Thank you so much . (Original) Me encantó !! Muchas gracias .
- Apr. 19, 2024
Friendly and helpful staff!
- Apr. 17, 2024
Dr Coughlin is my favorite doc of all of my specialists. He’s fun, fast, poignant, honest, and hel... pful. His staff is always kind and honest; the office runs efficiently.
- Apr. 17, 2024
Nice people to work with and very thorough
- Apr. 17, 2024
My husband and I were very impressed with Dr. Bui. We did not feel rushed. Answered all our questi... ons. Definitely will be seeing her again next year.
- Apr. 15, 2024
Excellent service. All the staff were very friendly and pleasant. The doctor was exceptional. I will... definitely recommend this place.
- Apr. 13, 2024
Very friendly, professional, and accommodating. Always a great experience. Thanks to all the staff.
- Apr. 10, 2024
Bay Hill Eye Care gives great service & very professional.
- Apr. 08, 2024
Great service by the team.
- Apr. 08, 2024
Always the best and friendly service, appointments are on time and that's a big plus! Love the no di... alation option, I highly recommend them.
- Apr. 08, 2024
Incredible clean work area. Very friendly employees

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Macular Degeneration Treatment in Orlando

Our optometry practice in Orlando

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senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

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

(407) 351-3232