Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Protecting Your Central Vision
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in adults over 50. AMD affects the macula— the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision needed for reading, driving, recognizing faces, and other everyday tasks. Early detection and treatment can helps low progression and preserve vision.
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Schedule a retinal evaluation today. Call 414-321-7520 or request an appointment online.
Common Symptoms of Macular Degeneration
AMD often develops gradually and may not cause noticeable symptoms early on. As the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
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Blurred or distorted central vision
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Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
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Dark or empty spots in vision
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Straight lines appearing wavy
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Reduced color perception
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Trouble seeing fine details
If you notice sudden changes or distortion in your vision, prompt evaluation is important.
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Dry AMD - Yellowy spots are drusen
Wet AMD - Dark area is blood leakage
Types of Macular Degeneration​​​
Dry AMD
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Dry AMD is the most common form of macular degeneration. It occurs when the macula gradually thins over time, often associated with the buildup of small deposits called drusen. Vision changes are usually slow and progressive. ​
Wet AMD
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Wet AMD is less common but more serious. It develops when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and lead fluid or blood, causing rapid central vision loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to preserving sight. ​
Risk Factors for AMD
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Researchers are not certain what causes the changes in the macula that lead to AMD. However, known risk factors include:
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​Aging (the number one risk factor, especially after age 65)
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Smoking (increases risk 3-4 times)
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A family history of AMD
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Circulatory problems, obesity and inactivity
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High blood pressure or cardiovascular disease
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Prolonged sun/UV-light exposure
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​Light-colored eyes
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Regular eye exams are especially important for patient with these risk factors.
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Have You Had an Eye Exam in the Last Year?
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Regular eye exams are essential for protecting your vision and detecting eye conditions early. If it’s been more than a year since your last exam, schedule an appointment with our team today.
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Call 414-321-7520 to schedule your eye exam.
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Detection & Monitoring
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A comprehensive dilated eye exam is necessary to evaluate the presence, type and severity of AMD and whether or not treatment would help. At Eye Care Specialists, the following instruments and tests may be used.
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Slit Lamp: A special microscope for seeing inside the eye to evaluate its overall health. The slit lamp can be used with a special lens to fully examine the macula.
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Ophthalmoscope: This instrument is used to look through the pupil and light up the back of the eye to check the health of the optic nerve and retina for any abnormal conditions, such as AMD or retinal detachment.
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Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): During the fast, painless OCT procedure, patients simply focus on a light while a safe, invisible laser scans the inside of the eye to acquire an image in just seconds.
The OCT creates detailed computer printouts (similar to CT scans) that provide unparalleled accuracy in visualizing and measuring the severity and extent of AMD. This “optical ultrasound” of the anatomic layers of the retina and optic nerve enables us to determine how and when to treat wet AMD by mapping areas of fluid leakage and drying. Follow-up scans are then used to track and adjust each patient’s treatment plan.​​​
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Take a Self-test: Amsler Grid
​The Amsler Grid is a simple, inexpensive and effective screening tool to test for early warning signs of AMD. A normal, healthy eye sees the grid pattern in its entirety, without distortion. An eye with AMD, however, may see lines as distorted or bowing, have a shadowy spot at the point of focus, or have entire areas that are missing. AMD patients should do this test daily, especially for prompt detection and treatment of cases where dry AMD changes into the more severe wet AMD. Your eye care specialist can provide you with an Amsler Grid and complete easy instructions for use.​
Macular Degeneration Treatment Options​
While there is currently no cure for AMD, treatment can help slow progression and protect remaining vision.
Monitoring & Early Detection​
Routine retinal examinations and OCT imagining help detect AMD early and monitor changes over time. ​
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Nutritional Supplements
For certain patients with intermediate dry AMD, AREDS2 vitamin supplements may help reduce the risk of progression to more advanced disease. Our doctors can help determine whether these supplements may be appropriate based on your retinal examination and overall eye health.
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Lifestyle & Risk Factor Management
Managing overall health can play an important role in protecting vision. Patients with AMD are often encouraged to:
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Stop smoking
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Maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels
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Eat a diet rich in leafy greens and antioxidants
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Protect their eyes from UV exposure
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Monitor vision changes at home using an Amsler grid
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Medication Injections for Wet AMD
Wet AMD is commonly treated with anti-VEGF medication injections that help reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage beneath the retina. These in-office treatments can help stabilize vision and, in some cases, improve visual outcomes when started early and continued consistently.
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Personalized Retinal Care
Because AMD affects every patient differently, our ophthalmologists create individualized treatment and monitoring plans designed to protect long-term vision and quality of life.
Have You Had an Eye Exam in the Last Year?​
Regular eye exams are essential for protecting your vision and detecting eye conditions early. If it has been more than a year since your last exam, schedule an appointment with our team today.
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Call 414-321-7520 to schedule your eye exam or request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can macular degeneration be cured?
There is currently no cure for AMD, but treatment and ongoing monitoring can help slow progression and preserve vision.
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What is the difference between dry and wet AMD?
Dry AMD progresses gradually over time, while wet AMD involved abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina that can cause rapid vision loss.
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Does macular generation cause blindness?
AMD affects central vision but does not usually cause complete blindness, Peripheral (side) vision is typically preserved.
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How often should patients with AMD have eye exams?
The frequency of exams depends on the severity and type of AMD. Your doctor will recommend a monitoring schedule based on your individual condition.
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Download Our AMD Resource Guide
Access helpful regional and national resources, support organizations, and vision assistance information for patients living with macular degeneration.
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Ready to Protect Your Vision?​
Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in preserving sight. If you are experiencing blurred or distorted central vision, schedule an evaluation with our team today.
Call 414-321-7520 or request an appointment online.
Why Choose Eye Care Specialists?​
Since 1985, Eye Care Specialists has provided advanced medical and surgical eye care to patients throughout southeastern Wisconsin. Our ophthalmologists use advanced diagnostic imaging and treatment technology to monitor and manage retinal conditions, including macular degeneration.
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Call 414-321-7520 to schedule your eye exam or request an appointment online.