Condition
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in Americans ages 65 and older. The condition occurs when the macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for the sharp, central vision needed to read or drive, deteriorates. Because the macula primarily is affected in AMD, central vision loss may occur. There are two forms of AMD: wet and dry. Patients with wet AMD develop new blood vessels under the retina. This causes hemorrhages, swelling, and scar tissue. Dry AMD is much more common and is characterized by drusen (small, yellowish deposits) and loss of pigment in the retina.
Risk factors include:
- Heredity
- smoking
- blue eyes
- high blood pressure
- cardiovascular disease
Prevalence
1.75 million U.S. residents have advanced age-related macular degeneration. The number of cases is expected to rise to almost 3 million by 2020.
Symptoms
Macular degeneration usually produces a slow, or rarely, sudden painless loss of vision. Early signs of vision loss from AMD include shadowy areas in your central vision or unusually fuzzy or distorted vision. Retinal exams can detect early signs of macular degeneration before symptoms occur. When macular degeneration is suspected, a brief test to measure your central vision may be performed.
Treatment
Dry AMD cannot currently be treated, which does not mean you will lose your sight. Fortunately, dry AMD develops very slowly. Although you may lose some of your central vision over the years, most people are able to have normal, active lives, especially if AMD affects only one eye. Currently, Retina Institute of Hawaii is excepting enrollment for a clinical trial, which seeks a new care option for wet AMD. NeoVista’s Novel Wet AMD Therapy includes a one-time treatment of a targeted dose of beta radiation to leaking blood vessels and two injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor. Other treatment options for wet AMD are also available.
As we celebrate Black History this month, we take a look at some remarkable pioneers whose persistence, dedication, innovation and leadership have paved the way and shaped the landscape of eye and vision science.
From top to right:
David K. McDonogh, MD, (1821 - 1893), was a slave who, became America's FIRST African American Ophthalmologist, practiced at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary and even started a practice in Manhattan’s Village neighborhood.
Howard P. Venable, MD, (1913 – 1998) and his wife, Katie, started the Venable Student Research Fund in Ophthalmology with the goal of encouraging more black students to join the ophthalmology field. The fund supported resident research projects and provided resources for necessary equipment and housing. Venable retired in 1987 and in 1994 was awarded the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s Outstanding Humanitarian Award — the first African American to receive this honor. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Great leaders look toward the future—shouldn’t you? This Presidents Day, take the first step toward better vision with LASIK, cataract surgery, or dry eye care!
🏝️ See the beauty of our islands with clear vision. ⛰ ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
😍 Your Eyes Deserve a Love Story Too! 😍
Give yourself (or a loved one!) the gift of improved vision this Valentine’s Day! Imagine waking up glasses-free and seeing your world with clarity and confidence thanks to LASIK.
👁️ Ready to start your love story with clear vision? Schedule a consultation today! ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in adults over 50, affecting central vision and making daily tasks like reading and driving difficult.
🔍 Know the Signs:
Blurry or distorted vision
Dark or empty spots in your central vision
Trouble recognizing faces
Early detection is key! Regular eye exams can help protect your vision. If you or a loved one are at risk, schedule an eye exam today! ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Wishing you a year filled with clear vision, good health, and prosperity! As we welcome the Year of the Snake, may your future be bright and full of new possibilities. 🐍
👁️ Start the new year seeing clearly—whether it's LASIK, cataract surgery, or a routine eye exam, we’re here to help you achieve better vision for a brighter tomorrow!
🏝️ From our ohana to yours, Hau’oli Makahiki Hou! 🎊 ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Low vision is when even with regular glasses, contact lenses, medicine, or surgery, people have difficulty seeing, which makes everyday tasks difficult to do. The leading causes of vision loss in older adults are age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, cataract, and glaucoma. Eye Center of Hawaii provides support for these patients as well as preventative care to preserve vision by diagnosing and treating these conditions before they take vision. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook