Macular Degeneration is one of the most common and potentially serious conditions of the retina. Specifically, this disease affects the central and most important portion of the retina, the macula. This disease in painless and most patients will initially notice a loss of central vision in one or both eyes. Risk factors for this disease include but are not limited to older age, family history and history of smoking. Certain types of macular degeneration can be stabilized with medicine delivered directly into to eye. At Beach Cities Retina, we are fully equipped to handle all types of macular degeneration and if needed provide treatment the same day.
The “dry” in Dry Macular Degeneration refers to a lack of fluid or bleeding underneath or within the macula. This is the most common type of macular degeneration and fortunately, vision can be excellent even with this condition. In certain cases of dry macular degeneration, central vision loss can occur that can be stabilized with injections of medicine into the eye. Please ask the doctor if you are a candidate for this type of treatment.
The “wet” in Wet Macular Degeneration refers to bleeding or fluid in the macula. This is the most severe type of macular degeneration and usually presents with painless central vision loss. In this disease, injections of medicine are started immediately into the eye to stabilize and in some cases improve vision. Injections of medicine can be continued long-term depending on the response to treatment. There are many medicines used to treat this condition and at Beach Cities Retina, we work with you on an individualized basis to develop a unique treatment plan to best preserve your vision and quality of life.
