What is Macular Degeneration?

Age related macular degeneration (ARMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in people age 60 and older. It affects the macula, the central part of the retina, responsible for central vision and seeing fine details. The retina is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye that captures the picture that we see. ARMD destroys central vision, what we use for daily tasks, like reading and driving. In ARMD vision loss can be mild or severe, and it can worsen gradually or suddenly.

There are 2 forms of the disease: Dry ARMD and Wet ARMD. In Dry ARMD the deterioration tends to be slow and gradual. In Wet ARMD abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina, destroying the retina, and causing sudden and severe vision loss.

High-dose antioxidant vitamins have been shown to reduce the risk of advanced ARMD and vision loss. Adequate levels of these vitamins and minerals are difficult to obtain just by diet. They are not a cure for AMD but may delay the onset of advanced disease. Wet ARMD can be treated with injections of medicines into the eye.

All patients should have a dilated eye exam to look for Macular Degeneration. To schedule a dilated eye exam or if you have questions, please call D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937. You may also request an appointment at facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare.

If you or someone you know suffers from eyestrain symptoms they are encouraged to schedule an eye examination at D’Ambrosio Eye Care by calling us at 800-325-3937, visiting D’Ambrosio Eye Care or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help identify the possible causes and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

Staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, care for diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear and optical services.

D'Ambrosio Eye Care is a leading eye and LASIK care practice serving the greater Boston and central Massachusetts area including Acton, Athol, Berlin, Bolton, Boylston, Boxborough, Chelmsford, Clinton, Concord, Fitchburg, Gardner, Greenfield, Groton, Harvard, Hudson, Lancaster, Leominster, Lexington, Littleton, Lowell, Lunenburg, Marlborough, Milford, Shelburne Falls, Shirley, Sterling, Stow, Sudbury, Templeton, Westminster, Westborough, Winchendon and Worcester, Massachusetts.