Age Related Macular Degeneration

Wear those sunglasses people!

Age related macular degeneration (ARMD) is a disease that is common as we age.  This is something I see in our office all the time and will become more prevalent as the population grows older.  For people over the age 60, there is a 1 in 8 chance of getting ARMD and increases to 1 in 3 chance for people over the age of 75.  As the name implies, this disease affects the eye's macula (which is the area responsible for your best vision).  Waste products called drusen begin to develop over this area, which in turns starts to impede the central vision.

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Although ARMD is quite common, this condition tends to progress very slowly. There is currently no cure for ARMD however, there are treatments to reduce further damage.   

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Through a proper eye exam, we can assess for early signs, identify risk factors, and ultimately choose the best treatment to slow down the process.  This may include wearing sunglasses, certain vitamins or potentially referring you for laser treatment.