Blog Archives | Page 6 of 21 | Specialty Eye Institute

Age-Related Macular Degeneration Study

Have you recently been diagnosed with Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)? You may qualify to take part in a clinical research study to evaluate an investigational eye medication. Talk with your retina doctor for more details.

To participate you must be:

At least 50 years of age
Newly Diagnosed with Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD)

This clinical research study could be right for you!

If you qualify to participate:

Your participation may last up to 6 months and include approximately 8 visits.
You will receive study-related medication and study-related exams at no cost. Compensation for your time and travel expenses may be available.

For More Information Contact:
Shellie Fuentes, Clinical Study Coordinator
TLC Eyecare & Laser Centers

[email protected]
(517) 749-1755

6 Ways to Maintain Healthy Vision

Keeping your eyes healthy is critical for your day-to-day safety as you maneuver around, interact with others, and communicate. Millions of Americans are living with visual impairment, and even more are susceptible for preventable eye diseases and injuries. Below are six things you should be doing now to maintain healthy vision as you age.

Download Maintaining Healthy Vision White Paper

Reduce Time Spent Staring at a Computer or Tablet: A study from the Vision Council revealed that 68% of millennials suffer from digital eyestrain, which can develop into Computer Vision syndrome (CVS). Technology’s inﬁltration into our daily activities is unavoidable, but you still need to be mindful of time spent staring at screen by taking 20-minute breaks every couple hours. Dr. Clint Simpson of TLC Eyecare & Laser Centers recommends following the 20-20-20 rule: during those 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Adjusting your workstation so the top of the screen is about 4 to 5 inches below eye level also helps.
Quit Smoking: Smoking’s consequences are generally associated with cancer and heart disease, but it also affects your vision. The risk of developing age-related cataracts, optic nerve damage and macular degeneration all drastically increase by smoking.
Take Out Contacts: Leaving your contact lenses in while you sleep deprives your cornea from getting the oxygen it needs from the outside air. Keeping contacts in all the time is like breathing through a mask. Lack of oxygen results in your eyes growing blood vessels where they don’t belong. This has negative effects on your vision. Remember to always wash your hands when placing and removing your contacts and replace them as often as you replace your toothbrush.
Use Safety Glasses/Goggles: Whether working on a home project, doing yard work, or performing a repair on your car, you need to be protecting your eyes. Dust, debris, chemicals and metal shavings are common things that can get into the eyes and elicit damage. Whenever working on anything that might propel objects into the air, wear safety glasses or goggles.
Wear Sunglasses: The general rule here is if you are putting on sunscreen, you should be wearing sunglasses as well. Sunglasses will protect your eyes from UV light, which has shown increases in the development of pterygium and cataracts. Make sure the glasses block 99-100% of both kinds of UV light, UVA and UVB.
See an Eye Doctor: Every 2-3 years you should have a dilated eye exam. After age 45, it should be every 1-2 year(s) in order to screen for glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration. For children, a baseline eye screening should be conducted no later than 2 years of age. You should always consult with a professional and not rely on a self-diagnosis with an assist from WebMD. The best way to maintain healthy vision is with regular eye exams.

RELATED CONTENT: Glaucoma Mini Series

Supplements & Vitamins for Macular Degeneration

Our eyesight is a precious function that many of us take for granted. While sitting in the doctor’s office may not be something you enjoy doing, a yearly visit with your ophthalmologist is a great way to protect your vision from degenerative eye disease. Supplements and vitamins are used for slowing or stopping the progression of macular degeneration in older adults. Macular degeneration is the most common eye disease. If you are 55 years or older, your ophthalmologist should examine your eyes every year as early diagnosis is the key to a successful treatment plan.

What Causes Macular Degeneration?

There are many risk factors for macular degeneration such as heredity and age, smoking, high blood pressure, and vitamin-deficient diets.

The two types of macular degeneration are wet and dry. Both will lead to loss of vision if they are not diagnosed and treated aggressively. For more information on risk levels and the types of macular degeneration, contact your ophthalmologist.

If you have been diagnosed with macular degeneration, you are not alone. While macular degeneration is a leading cause of blindness, it is also treatable. Depending on your level of degeneration and your adherence to a treatment plan, you can slow the development of macular degeneration for many years.

Supplements for Macular Degeneration

There are many treatments available for macular degeneration patients, and your specific treatment options will depend on the type, stage, and personal medical history.

Remember, your ophthalmologist is a trained professional, so regardless of the treatment recommended, following it closely is imperative to maintaining your vision. The first step to stopping or slowing the spread of macular degeneration is adjusting your diet to include supplements to improve your health. Here is a list of the most common changes for your diet:

1. Zinc and Antioxidants

After years of research, studies have shown that taking supplements with high levels of zinc and antioxidants may help slow the progression of macular degeneration. Your ophthalmologist will recommend the right type and dosage of these supplements. If you are at risk of developing macular degeneration or are concerned about this condition, ensure your daily multivitamin contains these vital nutrients.

Tips & Insights: Should I Get Cataract Surgery? Benefits & Suggestions

2. Other Vitamins and Minerals

In addition to zinc and antioxidants, the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends a daily supplement with high doses of vitamins C and E, copper, and zeaxanthin. This regimen is based on recent findings that suggest these supplements may stop or slow the progression of intermediate dry macular degeneration from advancing to wet macular degeneration, the stage when loss of vision occurs.

3. Eye-Healthy Foods

While supplements are the most common treatment for macular degeneration, remember that simply taking a daily vitamin will not prevent or slow the progression of this destructive disease.

Ophthalmologists also recommend, in addition to daily supplements, eating a diet rich in nutrients that promote healthy eye function and slow the advancement of macular degeneration. When choosing fruits and vegetables, choose colorful vegetables, particularly dark leafy greens like spinach and kale.

Preventing Macular Degeneration

Your best defense against developing a degenerative eye disease is to practice preventative measures, so macular degeneration will not be a threat to your eyesight. Regular eye exams and tools like the Amsler Grid test can help detect any changes in the retina and macula. Our staff of ophthalmologists provides dependable eye care solutions such as macular degeneration treatments, cataract surgery, dry eye treatments, LASIK eye surgery, and presbyopia treatments. Yearly examinations with our team of ophthalmologists will verify that your eyes are healthy. If they're not, yearly exams allow for early detection of eye degeneration.

We'll help you to utilize the many treatments, supplements, and vitamins for macular degeneration if this condition affects you. Our team of ophthalmologists offers eye treatment options in areas of Michigan and Ohio such as Ann Arbor, Kalamazoo, Bryan, and Toledo. Schedule an appointment online or call us at (877) 852-8463.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Wet vs Dry Macular Degeneration

Don’t be intimidated by its big name. Macular degeneration is the term for a manageable eye condition that impairs our vision as we age. Whether you’re one of the millions who have been diagnosed with macular degeneration or you’re here to improve your eye health, you may have heard people refer to two types — “wet” and “dry” macular degeneration. So, what’s the difference between the two?

The purpose of this guide is to answer that question, and it starts with a general understanding of macular degeneration.

Table of Contents

What is Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, represents the primary cause of vision loss among adults over 60. It affects the macula, a crucial part of the retina responsible for central vision processes such as facial recognition, reading, and driving.

This condition develops when the macula begins to deteriorate over time, causing central vision loss while leaving peripheral vision intact. While AMD typically doesn't cause complete blindness, it can significantly impact a person's quality of life by making everyday activities more challenging as the condition progresses.

What is Dry Macular Degeneration?

Dry macular degeneration accounts for 85-90% of all AMD cases and is characterized by the gradual deterioration of the macula and the accumulation of drusen, small deposits of cellular debris in the retina.

While this form typically progresses at a slower rate than wet AMD, it can still lead to significant central vision impairment if left unmonitored. And because dry AMD can sometimes develop into the more serious wet form, regular eye examinations are essential for tracking its progression.

What is Wet Macular Degeneration?

Wet macular degeneration, though less common than dry macular degeneration, represents the more severe form of AMD and requires immediate medical attention. The hallmark of this condition is the abnormal growth of blood vessels beneath the retina, which can leak blood and fluid, causing rapid and severe damage to central vision.

Since there is no treatment for wet macular degeneration, early detection is crucial to managing its symptoms. During this stage, patients may notice straight lines appearing wavy or distorted. These changes should prompt an immediate consultation with your eye care specialist.

Symptoms of Macular Degeneration?

Those over 60 should be aware of the potential wet and dry macular degeneration symptoms, particularly in their early stages, as timely detection is crucial for managing AMD.

Early and Intermediate Stages
- Minimal to no noticeable symptoms initially
- Mild blurriness in central vision
- Difficulty adapting to low-light conditions
- Dulled intensity of colors
- Need for brighter light when reading or doing detailed work
Advanced Stages (Wet or Dry)
- Straight lines appearing wavy or bent
- Dark or blurry spots in the center of vision
- Progressive growth of blind spots in central vision
- Difficulty recognizing faces
- Problems with reading, driving, or performing detailed tasks

Treatments for Macular Degeneration

Managing AMD requires a personalized approach based on the type and stage of the condition. While limited, here are the current treatment options available:

Dry Macular Degeneration Treatment
- Regular monitoring through comprehensive eye exams.
- Lifestyle modifications, including exercising regularly and quitting smoking.
- Nutritional support through eye-healthy foods (fish, leafy greens, yellow fruits).
- AREDS2 vitamin and mineral supplements for intermediate stages.
- Advanced cases may be prescribed one of two new FDA-approved injectable medications, including pegcetacoplan or avacincaptad pegol.
Wet Macular Degeneration Treatment
- Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections have shown vision stabilization in 90% of patients and vision improvement in 33%.
- Laser photocoagulation surgery to seal leaking blood vessels.
- A combination of photodynamic therapy, laser treatment, and anti-VEGF injections has proven successful in select cases.

FAQs: Wet AMD vs Dry AMD

Which form of macular degeneration is more severe?

While both types can impact vision, wet macular degeneration is generally considered more serious as it can cause rapid vision loss due to leaking blood vessels. Even though dry macular degeneration progresses more slowly, it should still be monitored carefully since it can develop into the wet form.

What are the chances of dry AMD progressing to wet AMD?

Approximately 10% of patients with dry macular degeneration will develop the wet form. Regular monitoring by your eye care specialist is crucial for early detection of any changes, as prompt treatment of wet AMD can help preserve vision.

Can macular degeneration be prevented?

While there's no guaranteed way to prevent AMD, several lifestyle choices can reduce your risk:

Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams
Maintain a healthy diet rich in leafy greens and fish
Exercise regularly
Avoid smoking or quit if you currently smoke
Protect your eyes from UV exposure
Consider vitamin supplements if recommended by your doctor

How often should I get my eyes checked if I have AMD?

The frequency of eye exams depends on your AMD type and stage. Generally, those with early AMD should have comprehensive exams at least annually, while those with more advanced stages may need frequent monitoring. Your eye care specialist will recommend an appropriate schedule.

Can I continue driving with macular degeneration?

Early-stage AMD permits continued driving, especially during daylight hours. However, as the condition progresses, you should discuss driving safety with your eye care provider, as they can best assess your visual capabilities and make appropriate recommendations.

When Should You Have Cataract Surgery? Signs, Symptoms & Causes

How Do You Know If You Need Cataract Surgery?

At the beginning of cataract formation, it may be easy to improve your vision through glasses, magnification, bifocals, visual aids, and appropriate lighting. When the cataract progresses to the point that it impairs vision and the way of life, it may be the right time to have cataract surgery.

Aging is considered the primary factor of poor vision, but getting cataract surgery is painless and simple enough to get your clear vision back. According to PBA, visiting a certified ophthalmologist to perform cataract surgery is an excellent way to get your vision back, and it is the most successful surgery performed in the US, with more than three million Americans undergoing the surgery every year.

What are Cataracts?

A cataract is identified with the clouding of the natural lens in an eye. People who are over 40 are the most affected by cataracts when it comes to vision impairment. In addition, cataracts are the world’s primary cause of blindness.

To understand the seriousness of the widespread effect of cataracts, Prevent Blindness America (PBA) stated that cataracts are more common in comparison to the combined cases of diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Cataracts now affect approximately more than 22 million Americans over the age of 46, and PBA states that the figure will rise to 30 million by 2020.

What Are The Signs You Need Cataract Surgery?

Cataract symptoms often include blurry vision, similar to looking through cloudy glass. You may also become more sensitive to light. Driving at night may become a challenge because the headlights from oncoming cars may cause more glare than they used to. If you are struggling to see the contrast between different colors or the colors you observe appear less vibrant, this is a sign it's time to talk with a certified ophthalmologist about the advantages of having cataract surgery.

Tips & Insights: What Are The Signs of Macular Degeneration?

What Causes Cataracts?

The eye’s lens functions like the lens of a camera, it is used to focus light on the retina, and it adjusts the focus of the eye for you to see things clearly for both close or distant objects. The main components of the lens are protein and water.

The protein is organized in a way to keeps the lens clear for the light to easily pass through. Over time, the protein may build up and form a small cloudy part of the lens. The cloud may become larger over time forming a cataract, which will make it harder for you to see.

The reason why the lens changes as we age is unknown to us, but doctors have identified factors that cause a cataract; they include:

Diabetes
Hypertension
Obesity
UV radiation
Smoking
High Myopia
Previous inflammation or eye surgery
Hormone replacement therapy
Use of corticosteroid medications
Statin medicines
High intake of alcohol

One of the known theories about the formation of cataracts is the oxidative changes in the lens. Nutrition studies support this theory because vegetables and fruits that have antioxidants can help prevent the cause of distinct types of cataracts.

What Happens During Cataract Surgery?

When you talk with an ophthalmologist about having cataract surgery, you will become familiar with the process of removing the clouded lens in your eye with a clear intraocular lens (IOL). Intraocular lenses are plastic in nature.

Recent developments in IOLs allow patients to have lens options based on their lifestyle. There are 4 main types of IOLs:

Monofocal lens – These lenses can provide clear distance vision for patients without astigmatism.
Multifocal lens – These lenses can provide a range of vision from near to intermediate to distance.
Astigmatism Correcting (Toric) lens – correct higher levels of astigmatism and provide clear distance vision. You will still need glasses for near and intermediate vision.
Depth-of-focus lens – This lens provides a continuous range of vision at all distances to fit your active lifestyle.

Men should also be careful to know that some prostate drugs can cause IFIS (Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome) when cataract removal is being performed.

If there is a cataract in each of your eyes, typically cataract surgery is performed on your non-dominant eye first followed by your dominant eye 1-2 weeks later. The time between the two cataract surgeries is in case infection or complications occur.

To prevent yourself from having cataract surgery, use antioxidant vitamins like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin C, and also wear sunglasses to block UV rays when you are enjoying the sun. If you are struggling to read or drive at night, this is a sign of vision issues that need to be diagnosed by a certified ophthalmologist or optometrist. Our staff of ophthalmologists offers innovative eye care solutions such as LASIK eye surgery, blepharoplasty surgery, glaucoma treatments, corneal transplants, and keratoconus options. Give our team of ophthalmologists a call by phone at (877) 852-8463 to discuss eye care treatments.

Schedule your cataract screening today!

Schedule My Screening

Age-Related Macular Degeneration Study

6 Ways to Maintain Healthy Vision

Supplements & Vitamins for Macular Degeneration

What Causes Macular Degeneration?