Macular Degeneration

Up to 20 million Americans have some type of age-related macular degeneration. There’s no cure, but intervention can preserve your vision and prevent the problem from worsening. At Apex Retina Institute, located in Long Beach, California, experienced ophthalmologist Darren Knight, MD, and the team specialize in diagnosing and treating macular degeneration. Dr. Knight regularly works with patients to develop personalized macular degeneration treatment plans that utilize the latest therapeutics and technology. Call Apex Retina Institute today to receive treatment for macular degeneration, or book your appointment online.

What is macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is a common eye problem that affects the retina –– a light-sensitive layer of nerve tissue at the back of your eyes. Specifically, macular degeneration damages the macula, the part of your retina responsible for central vision (what you see directly in front of you).

Without treatment, macular degeneration leads to vision loss. Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent the condition from progressing.

What are the types of macular degeneration?

At Apex Retina Institute, Dr. Knight treats both types of macular degeneration, including:

Dry macular degeneration

This type of macular degeneration occurs slowly over an extended period. It causes tiny clumps of protein, called drusen, to form near the macula. As more protein collects, it results in blurry or distorted vision.

Wet macular degeneration

This type of macular degeneration causes abnormal blood vessels to form beneath your retina. If left untreated, the blood vessels leak, scarring your macula and damaging your vision.

How is macular degeneration diagnosed?

Dr. Knight reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes an eye exam. The exam features several tests, including:

Amsler grid

During this test, Dr. Knight has you look at a unique chart called an Amsler grid. The grid helps identify blank, distorted, or blurry spots in your field of vision. Dr. Knight also uses a special lens to view the retina and macula at the back of your eye.

Optical coherence tomography (OCT)

OCT is a type of diagnostic imaging that allows Dr. Knight to examine your retina closely. The test is quick and painless but provides crucial insights into your optical health.

Fluorescein angiography

If Dr. Knight suspects you have wet macular degeneration, he might order fluorescein angiography. This imaging procedure uses medical dye and a special camera to find abnormal blood vessels at the back of your eye.

How is macular degeneration treated?

Treatment of macular degeneration depends on the type and severity of your symptoms. Dr. Knight works with each of his patients to develop personalized treatment plans. His goal is to relieve uncomfortable symptoms and help you better understand the disease.

Dry macular degeneration

Eating certain foods and taking nutritional supplements can prevent drusen buildup from worsening. Dr. Knight typically recommends eating a balanced diet and taking specific vitamins.

Wet macular degeneration

Dr. Knight prescribes anti-VEGF medications –– a group of drugs that prevent blood vessels from forming at the back of your eye. In some cases, laser surgery is beneficial. Laser surgery prevents the blood vessels in your eye from leaking.

Call Apex Retina Institute today to receive treatment for macular degeneration or make your appointment online.