senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

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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 of Colorado - Pioneer Hills today. We can diagnose and help treat the disease.


Give Your Eyes the Care They Deserve

Macular Degeneration Treatment in Aurora

Our optometry practice in Aurora

Photograph of Sharnelle  Kamibayashi
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Saturday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
  • Nov. 23 Closed
  • Dec. 25 Closed
Insurance Plans
  • Medicare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Blue Cross

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 of Colorado - Pioneer Hills today. 

Photograph

Patient Reviews
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359 Reviews
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- Sep. 19, 2023
The business has comfortable chairs and a relaxed atmosphere. When they couldn't honor my scheduled ... appointment on time due to their computer system going down I was given an upgrade of one of their paid services for free. excellent customer service today.
- Aug. 22, 2023
I have found the glasses I was looking for, said what I was looking for and was handed what I was lo... oking for, need to save a little more money very professional and relaxed atmosphere I'm going back
- Aug. 11, 2023
Had a great experience and professional service at Eye Care Specialties. I received exceptional he... lp from Mark Ciesielski who did an excellent job understanding, applying and explaining how my insurance would be applied to my visit . I would highly recommend this office for your needs.
- Jul. 17, 2023
I had a great experience, questions asked were answered thoroughly and customer service was excellen... t!
- Jun. 17, 2023
Our family has had the best experiences here! Dr. VanDan is accurate, kind, and makes sure your ques... tions are answered. I especially love their ability to show images of your eye! The front desk is always supportive and kind, helping you from beginning to end. Bailey is our favorite by far, but you’ll be cared for no matter who assists you! The location is clean, updated, and welcoming. 10/10
- Jun. 17, 2023
Dr Vandan is amazing, my 6yr old recently saw him. Not often you see an eye Dr who takes their time ... and explains what they're doing and why. Will be switching my family to this clinic moving forward
- Jun. 04, 2023
They were the best
- Mar. 30, 2023
Everyone is amazing and efficient!
- Mar. 26, 2023
Very friendly staff and doctors. Helpful and quick service.
- Mar. 24, 2023
Would definitely recommend this wonderful place. Staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and extremely hel... pful. Dr. Kruglet explained more about my eyes in one visit than any of my prior 30 years of visits elsewhere. TOTALLY IMPRESSED!!
- Mar. 18, 2023
Pleasant staff and atmosphere. At every appointment, Dr. K. and staff provided professional and atte... ntive service.
- Feb. 14, 2023
Friendly staff, very clean , they don't rush you when picking out frames. They answer all questions....
- Feb. 12, 2023
Dr. VanDan, his assistant and Mark were all so helpful and kind. it was calm, not rushed and I felt ... like I got honest care. Thank you
- Feb. 04, 2023
My experience was very delightful. Staff is professional and very helpful and kind. They also have a... wide selection of designer eyewear to choose from.
- Dec. 21, 2022
Amazing staff, and amazing doctors. The person who go helped me pick out my frames was knowledgeable... and informative. The only thing I can say is off is the delivery time of frames and lenses. Other than that, A+ experience!
- Dec. 20, 2022
Great service and very friendly!
- Dec. 12, 2022
Lovely, welcoming staff. Run on time and efficiently. The doctors are very friendly and knowledgeabl... e. Definitely recommend!
- Nov. 18, 2022
Almost can't wait to go back!!! Lol
- Nov. 16, 2022
The doctors and staffs are very nice and welcoming.
- Nov. 14, 2022
Such a great office! I really appreciate Dr. Kruglet and his attention to detail. He was so helpful ... and compassionate. Highly recommend EyeCare Specialties of CO!

View All 359 Reviews

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.


senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

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

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