senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(217) 222-8800

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration, also called AMD or age-related macular degeneration, occurs when the macula — the central portion of the retina — begins to wear down, causing central vision loss.

People who suffer from AMD tend to lose their “straight ahead” vision, making it difficult to read, drive, and recognize faces. 

Total vision loss is unlikely, as there's typically enough peripheral vision to allow for other activities of daily life. 

Man with macular degeneration


Types of Macular Degeneration:

macular degeneration types

  • Dry AMD: small deposits called drusen damage retinal nerve cells and reduce vision
  • Wet AMD: new blood vessels form that leak and release fluid that harms the macula. This is a more severe form of AMD that can more quickly cause vision loss.

Don’t Let AMD Rob You of Your Sight

An estimated 196 million people are living with macular degeneration worldwide. Although those affected by it rarely lose all their vision, the vast majority suffer from some degree of vision loss. 

While there is currently no cure for AMD, there are certain treatments that can slow its progression — and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

If you think you're at risk or are experiencing symptoms, contact EyeCare Specialties - Quincy today. We can diagnose and help treat the disease.


Risk Factors for AMD

  • Aged 50+

    The onset of AMD usually happens over the age of 50 and increases substantially with time. For instance, a 2% risk at age 55 can turn into a 30% risk by age 75.

  • Lifestyle factors

    Smoking or eating a diet high in saturated fat can increase your risk of AMD. Furthermore, these habits increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease–two additional risk factors for AMD.

  • Obesity

    Research shows that people with a BMI of over 30 double their chances of developing AMD.

  • Family History

    If you have a close relative with AMD, you have a higher risk of developing this eye condition.


How to Stop the Progression of Macular Degeneration

While there isn’t yet a cure for AMD or an effective way of reversing vision loss that has already occurred, you can take certain steps and adopt new habits to slow the progression of the disease.

Furthermore, certain treatments can slow its progression and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

Talk to us about how you can slow the progression of the disease and avoid vision loss by contacting EyeCare Specialties - Quincy today. 

Photograph


Macular Degeneration FAQs

What are the first signs of AMD?

You may have AMD and not know it. Typically, symptoms may not develop until the advanced stage of the eye disease.

First signs of AMD may include: 

  • Blurred vision
  • Blind spots or dark spots
  • Straight lines appearing distorted or wavy
  • Faded colors 

 For early detection and better outcomes, it's important to undergo regular eye exams at our eye clinic, especially if you have a family history of AMD or other risk factors. 

How common is macular degeneration?

Statistics indicate that 8.7% of the world population has macular degeneration. The rate of AMD is expected to increase from 196 million in 2022 to 288 million by 2040.

What is the best treatment for macular degeneration?

Currently, the most common treatment for wet AMD is the injection of medications called anti-VEGF agents. High levels of VEGF in the eye increase the formation of abnormal blood vessels that cause much of the damage in wet AMD.

Patient Reviews
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327 Reviews
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- Aug. 27, 2024
Great work
- Jun. 20, 2024
Staff was great although they were stressed due to computer issues. The exam room I was in looked r... ather shabby. The exam chair had two large tears in the seat, the extra chairs were badly soiled and the carpet was dirty and worn. I don’t think this is the image you want to portray to your clients whether seasoned or new. Take an objective look at the environment through your customer’s eyes.
- Jun. 13, 2024
I had a very nice experience. I plan on returning if the need arises.
- May. 20, 2024
Great selection on glasses and very professional team
- Mar. 18, 2024
Staff were very helpful. Dr Thoele was great in helping me with my vision options.
- Mar. 11, 2024
(Translated by Google) They are all very professional, the doctor made you feel safe, the reset of m... y glasses was very correct, without a doubt I recommend it 100% (Original) Son muy profesionales todos, el doctor te ase sentir seguro la reseta de mi Lentes fue muy correcta sin duda lo recomiendo 100 %
- Feb. 25, 2024
Very courteous and professional. Doctor answered all my questions and concerns.
- Jan. 31, 2024
Very friendly staff and doctor was professional with a welcoming attitude and showed genuine concern... about my understanding the results of my tests. Thank you & see you next year 🕊️
- Jan. 19, 2024
Everything great from receptionist to the assistant and the Doctor. He explained everything I neede... d to know.
- Dec. 12, 2023
Very professional good service. The doctor explained everything so we can understand what’s going ... on thank you.
- Dec. 07, 2023
Very nice and efficient staff.
- Nov. 02, 2023
Great experience! Easy to schedule, ran on time, provider was down to earth and was thorough yet eng... aging.
- Aug. 15, 2023
Great experience! Dr Carlson and his staff are professional and efficient.
- Aug. 11, 2023
Very friendly and helpful got me right in explained everything and got me fixed up I would definitel... y recommend them to others
- Jul. 17, 2023
The doctor was very friendly and included me in his thoughts about what is going on with my eyes. H... e educated me and included me in diagnostic and treatment plans. The staff was friendly and helpful. My biggest praise for this location is the extended hours they offer. I can make and keep an appointment without having to take time off work.
- Jun. 17, 2023
The ladies at reception were wonderful! They made an extra effort to make my anxious child feel comf... ortable. Doug was great with him during the exam explaining everything as he went and just being really pleasant. Dr. Thoele was quick, professional, and also really nice. Overall, during our very first visit here we were made to feel like we had been customers for years. Would definitely recommend this place!
- Jun. 05, 2023
EXCELLENT CARE. LISTENED TO ALL MY CONCERNS AND QUESTIONS AND ANSWERED THEM. TOP NOTCH
- May. 01, 2023
Great service
- Feb. 22, 2023
I have had Dr Carlson as a dr for years this was the first time seeing him at his new office. And Do... ug the staff who did my initial testing and such is the best. He was super friendly and you can tell he loves his job.
- Feb. 17, 2023
WE LOVE THE LADY AT THE FRONT DESK! SHE IS THE BEST!

View All 327 Reviews

Macular Degeneration Treatment in Quincy

Our optometry practice in Quincy

Photograph of Jonathon Thoele
Hours
  • Monday 8:30 am - 7:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday By Appointment Only
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
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  • Medicaid
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senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

Don’t let AMD stop you from doing the things you love.

(217) 222-8800