Macular Degeneration

What causes macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration of the eye occurs when the macula or center portion of the retina begins to experience damage and not function as it should. While this is normally a natural part of the aging process, the risk of increased degeneration can be increased through cigarette smoking and exposure to environmental hazards.

There are two main types of macular degeneration: wet and dry. The dry form is the most common and tends to progress at a much slower rate, while the wet version may appear rather suddenly causing an immediate change in your vision. Both forms are treatable, and Dr. Feiz will be able to formulate an effective treatment plan as soon as he has completed a thorough examination.

What are common signs of macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration can exhibit one or all of the signs and symptoms listed here. Each person's symptoms will vary in severity depending on how quickly the macula deteriorates. A few of the most common symptoms include:

• Reduced central vision (can occur in one or both of your eyes)
• Increased lighting to see normally when reading or performing delicate tasks
• Can't recognize facial features
• Increased blurriness
• Colors are less intense and lose their brightness

In most cases, these symptoms will begin to appear gradually, and many may go unnoticed or be attributed to other eye problems.

How is macular degeneration treated?

An effective treatment plan for macular degeneration can include the use of vitamins, anti-aging medications, laser procedures, and photodynamic laser therapy. Submacular surgery is also an option. Dr. Feiz will closely evaluate the health and condition of your eyes to determine what type of treatment will produce the best results.

Dr. Feiz will take the cause of your particular condition into consideration. He can use multiple treatment methods to ensure that your vision is protected for as long as possible, allowing you to effectively maintain your vision and manage your eyesight so that it isn't damaged or lost. While the progress of the condition can't be completely stopped, Dr. Feiz can slow it down and allow you to keep your vision for as long as possible.