senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(715) 381-1234

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 Christenson Vision Care today. We can diagnose and help treat the disease.


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 Christenson Vision Care today. 

Photograph


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.

Patient Reviews
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175 Reviews
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- Oct. 21, 2024
I have been coming here for a very long time. Dr Christensen genuinely cares about me and my eyes. I... get great service from the staff and I love my glasses.
- Oct. 16, 2024
Great honest people
- Oct. 15, 2024
Great service. Friendly
- Oct. 14, 2024
Great experience here! Easy to make an appointment - friendly staff - no wait time!
- Aug. 06, 2024
Great staff and expert care.
- Aug. 06, 2024
Very professional, very knowledgeable, and very caring.
- Jul. 27, 2024
I will never go anywhere else.
- Jul. 24, 2024
Having been going to Christenson Vision Center for years. Dr Flynn is a great doctor and the staff i... s very good.
- May. 22, 2024
Friendly and professional care. Great clinic.
- Apr. 23, 2024
Friendly, helpful staff. Dr. Griffin Christenson took the time to explain all the tests and results... .
- Apr. 13, 2024
Dr. Flynn was thorough in the eye exam and easy to talk to about any concerns. The support staff was... friendly and not pushy with glasses purchase.
- Apr. 10, 2024
I have challenging eye issues, Christenson has really taken the time to help me. They are patient, k... nowledgeable and professional. They are also wonderful with young children. If I could give them 10 stars, I would.
- Mar. 18, 2024
Great doctors that listen and care! The front office staff are cheerful and helpful.
- Mar. 11, 2024
Staff are very friendly, outgoing, and the doctors know what they are doing, very personable and the... y don't sugar coat anything. All the staff listen to your needs and take very good care of anyone who walks in.
- Jan. 25, 2024
The staff here is incredible and my exam was very thorough and informative.
- Jan. 18, 2024
Great service up to date equipment.
- Jan. 12, 2024
Everyone was friendly and the whole experience was fast and easy due to the awesome staff!
- Dec. 21, 2023
My family has been seeing Dr. Christenson for decades - yes, decades and could not be happier with h... is service. He even came in to assist with an eye emergency on the weekend. His staff are great too! I would recommend him for your eye cares!
- Dec. 05, 2023
Every one listened to my concerns and were able to come up with a solution and game plan moving forw... ard.
- Sep. 30, 2023
Excellent staff. Totally trust in the care I receive for my eyes here.

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Macular Degeneration Treatment in Hudson

Our optometry practice in Hudson

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Hours
  • Monday Closed
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
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senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

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

(715) 381-1234