Macular Degeneration

What are the Symptoms of Macular Degeneration?

If you’re in the early stages of age-related macular degeneration you may not have symptoms. As the condition progresses, you may notice:

• Visual distortion (such as straight lines seeming bent)
• Reduced central vision in one or both eyes
• Blurry vision
• Trouble adjusting to low-light settings

What are the Types of Macular Degeneration?

There are two types of AMD: Dry AMD (the most common type) and Wet AMD.

Dry AMD

By far the most common type, about 80% of people who have AMD have the dry form. Dry AMD is a gradual deterioration of the cells in the macula, which is the central part of the retina at the back of the eye. Dry AMD occurs when there is an accumulation of drusen, a yellow deposit that forms beneath the retina. Drusen may initially be harmless but over time can result in retinal degeneration and in the loss of central vision. Unlike “wet” AMD, which involves abnormal blood vessel growth, dry AMD occurs when the retinal cells die off and are not renewed.

Wet AMD

This form of AMD is less common but much more serious. Wet AMD occurs when new, abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina. These vessels may leak blood or other fluids, causing scarring of the macula.

How is Macular Degeneration Treated?

While there is currently no cure for macular degeneration, effective treatments can slow disease progression and help stabilize your vision. Our goal is to preserve your remaining sight and prevent further vision loss through personalized treatment approaches.

Dry AMD Treatment Options

Patients with dry AMD may benefit from several treatment modalities. AREDS2 nutritional supplements contain a specialized combination of vitamins and minerals clinically proven to slow disease progression in appropriate candidates. A comprehensive eye exam is necessary to determine which treatments are right for your specific condition.

LumiThera Light Therapy – Advanced Treatment for Dry AMD

Mann Eye Institute is proud to offer the FDA-Authorized Valeda Light Delivery System by LumiThera, a breakthrough in dry AMD treatment. This cutting-edge light therapy delivers targeted yellow, red, and near-infrared light to rejuvenate retinal cells, addressing a condition that historically had limited treatment options. The non-invasive, painless procedure takes just minutes and may help prevent further vision loss while potentially improving sight. Studies demonstrate that patients typically gain about one extra line of vision on eye charts after approximately two years of therapy. This represents a significant advancement in dry AMD care, offering new hope for patients who previously had few therapeutic options beyond nutritional supplements.

Wet AMD Treatment

For wet AMD, we utilize anti-VEGF medications. These advanced treatments can significantly improve vision in many patients by shrinking abnormal blood vessels and reducing retinal swelling.

Expert Care You Can Trust

Regular monitoring with Mann Eye retina specialist Dr. Mohsenin ensures your AMD is properly managed and controlled. Dr. Mohsenin brings unique expertise to AMD care, having previously directed an NIH-funded research laboratory dedicated to macular degeneration research during his tenure as a medical school professor. His PhD training in biochemistry and molecular biology, combined with his deep understanding of AMD at the molecular level, provides a perspective rarely found among retina specialists, giving our patients access to the most advanced and comprehensive AMD care available.