Condition
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in Americans ages 65 and older. The condition occurs when the macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for the sharp, central vision needed to read or drive, deteriorates. Because the macula primarily is affected in AMD, central vision loss may occur. There are two forms of AMD: wet and dry. Patients with wet AMD develop new blood vessels under the retina. This causes hemorrhages, swelling, and scar tissue. Dry AMD is much more common and is characterized by drusen (small, yellowish deposits) and loss of pigment in the retina.
Risk factors include:
- Heredity
- smoking
- blue eyes
- high blood pressure
- cardiovascular disease
Prevalence
1.75 million U.S. residents have advanced age-related macular degeneration. The number of cases is expected to rise to almost 3 million by 2020.
Symptoms
Macular degeneration usually produces a slow, or rarely, sudden painless loss of vision. Early signs of vision loss from AMD include shadowy areas in your central vision or unusually fuzzy or distorted vision. Retinal exams can detect early signs of macular degeneration before symptoms occur. When macular degeneration is suspected, a brief test to measure your central vision may be performed.
Treatment
Dry AMD cannot currently be treated, which does not mean you will lose your sight. Fortunately, dry AMD develops very slowly. Although you may lose some of your central vision over the years, most people are able to have normal, active lives, especially if AMD affects only one eye. Currently, Retina Institute of Hawaii is excepting enrollment for a clinical trial, which seeks a new care option for wet AMD. NeoVista’s Novel Wet AMD Therapy includes a one-time treatment of a targeted dose of beta radiation to leaking blood vessels and two injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor. Other treatment options for wet AMD are also available.
👁️ Did you know? Your pupils are like windows, playing a crucial role in your vision health. They naturally widen in dim lighting to let more light in. But sometimes, they dilate unexpectedly and it can have various causes, such as:
💊 Medications and recreational drugs
💥 Eye & head injuries
🏥 Medical conditions such as migraines, tumors, and Adie's Syndrome.
🦠 Other rare conditions such as microvascular cranial nerve palsy (MCNP) and Benign Episodic Unilateral Mydriasis (BEUM).
Remember, if you experience unusual pupil dilation, consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. 👩⚕️👨⚕️ #EyeHealthMatters #PupilPower #lovelife #bennetteyeinstitute #WednesdayWellness ... See MoreSee Less
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👁️ Embracing Healthy Aging Month with 4 Eye-Catching Tips! 👴👵🌟
Let's make sure our windows to the world stay bright and clear for years to come! 🌎💙#healthyaging #eyehealth #agegracefully #bennetteyeinstitute #lovelife ... See MoreSee Less
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Expand your knowledge with a fun eye fact! Did you know how powerful your eyes are? 🧠💡 Share this amazing fact with your friends! 🤓✨ #FunFactFriday #eyefacts #bennetteyeinstitute #eyecare #lovelife ... See MoreSee Less
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🙏 Gratitude in Words 🙌
A heartfelt thanks to our incredible patient for taking the time to share their testimonial. Your kind words warm our hearts and inspire us to continue providing the best care possible. 💙 #thankyou #patienttestimonial #grateful #bennetteyeinstitute #eyecare #lovelife ... See MoreSee Less
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👓 Protect those your eyes for years to come! In honor of healthy aging month, here are 5 tips to help you reduce the risk of cataracts and keep your eyes healthy:
😎 Shield from the Sun: Rock those stylish shades to block harmful UV rays and fend off cataract risks.
🍏 Nourish Your Eyes: Load up on colorful fruits and veggies packed with antioxidants to support your eye health.
🚭 Kick the Habit: Stub out that cigarette! Quitting smoking can decrease the chances of cataract development.
🩸 Manage Diabetes: If you're dealing with diabetes, keeping those blood sugar levels in check can lower your risk.
👁️🗨️ Check-in with an Eye Pro: Regular eye check-ups are a must. Stay on top of your eye health game!
While these tips can help, genetics and age also play a role. Consult one of our doctors for personalized advice. Stay vigilant and keep those eyes sparkling for years to come! ✨ #eyehealth #cataractprevention #healthyhabits #HealthyAgingMonth #bennetteyeinstitute #eyecare #lovelife ... See MoreSee Less
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👁️ Seeing Clearly, Living Brightly! 👀✨ Remember, proper lens care is key! Follow these tips to ensure your eyes stay sparkling and comfortable all day long. Let's show our eyes some love! 💙🔍 #contactlenscare #healthyeyeshappyyou #lovelife #bennetteyeinstitute #WednesdayWellness ... See MoreSee Less
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