Eyecare MD of New Jersey

What is Macular Degeneration? 

The macula (part of the eye controlling central vision) breaks down, blood vessels can grow and cause leakage in the macula.

What are the Symptoms?

Loss of central vision

Distorted lines and edges

What are the Risk Factors?

Age

Family history

High blood pressure

Smoking

What is the Treatment?

Nutritional supplements (vitamins, minerals) may slow progression

Laser therapy to seal leaking blood vessels

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) uses injected medicine activated by laser to destroy abnormal blood vessels without damaging the retina

Anti-VEGF medicine is injected into the eye to block the signal that causes abnormal blood vessel growth

A scene as it might be viewed by a person with age-related macular degeneration.
Credit: National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health