Advanced Macular Degeneration

Advanced macular degeneration occurs when damage within the macula causes visual issues like straight lines looking wavy or blank spots. At Retina Consultants of Austin, the macular degeneration specialists offer highly innovative treatments that prevent the disease from worsening. They have offices in Austin, Lakeway, Marble Falls, and Round Rock, Texas, so call the one nearest you or schedule an appointment online today.

What is advanced macular degeneration?

Advanced macular degeneration is the late-stage form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). There are two types of macular degeneration, and either can be advanced. 

Dry macular degeneration 

Dry macular degeneration occurs when drusen (deposits of proteins and fats) build up under the retina. This causes damage to the macula, the middle part of the retina that controls central vision.

Wet macular degeneration 

Wet macular degeneration occurs when unhealthy new blood vessels start growing behind the macula. They can leak blood and fluid and cause scarring. While only 10% of people with macular degeneration have the wet form, it causes 90% of blindness from the disease. 

Dry macular degeneration has an early, intermediate, and late stage. About 15% of people with dry macular degeneration progress to wet macular degeneration. All wet macular degeneration is considered advanced. 

What are the symptoms of advanced macular degeneration? 

Advanced macular degeneration can cause symptoms, including: 

• Straight lines look bent 
• Colors look less vibrant
• Blank spots in the central vision
• Blurry vision
• Difficulty recognizing faces or fine details

All these symptoms are serious warning signs. It’s critical to reach out to Retina Consultants of Austin as soon as you notice symptoms because the earlier you begin treatment, the better you preserve your eyesight. 

How is advanced macular degeneration treated?

There’s currently no treatment for advanced dry macular degeneration, but diet changes like eating more fish, yellow and red fruits and veggies, and dark leafy greens may help. Additionally, some supplements may slow further vision loss with advanced dry macular degeneration. These include:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D
• Lutein
• Zeaxanthin
• Zinc oxide
• Copper

Wet macular degeneration treatment involves eye injections. Your body produces a protein, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), that’s critical for new blood vessel growth. 

With wet macular degeneration, those new blood vessels are fragile and unhealthy, so it’s best to inhibit their growth. Anti-VEGF injections ultimately decrease the number of unhealthy blood vessels growing in your eye. Typically injections every four to six weeks help you get some of your lost vision back and prevent additional vision loss.

A port delivery system, an implant that delivers a steady flow of medication, could be an alternative to injections. 

Additionally, Retina Consultants of Austin has a robust research program, allowing patients access to the newest treatment options. 

Call Retina Consultants of Austin or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about advanced macular degeneration.