Macular Degeneration Specialist

What is macular degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) involves damage to your macula, which is the small spot near the center of your retina. The macula is essential for sharp central vision or seeing objects straight in front of you.

AMD causes problems with your central vision but not your peripheral (side) vision. So, if you look at a clock, you may see the numbers on the outside but not the hands in the center. There are two main types of AMD: dry and wet. There is no cure for the dry type, which affects about 80% of people with AMD.

What are the symptoms of macular degeneration?

AMD doesn’t lead to complete blindness on its own, but the gradual loss of central vision can interfere with daily activities, such as cooking and driving. Early signs and symptoms of AMD may go unnoticed for many years. These may include:

• Objects that appear misshapen or distorted
• Straight lines that appear wavy or crooked
• Dark or empty spots in the center of vision
• Difficulty seeing in the dark or driving at night

The team at Goetzinger Eye Institute offers the most advanced technology in detecting early signs of AMD, including the MacuLogix AdaptDx test. This test measures how quickly your eye adapts to dark conditions. Impaired dark adaptation is one of the earliest signs of AMD.  By investing in this innovative technology, the team at Goetzinger Eye Institute can detect AMD up to three years earlier than with traditional methods. This test will be available beginning April 11, 2019.

How is macular degeneration detected?

You may have AMD for years before your notice vision changes, but once the damage is done, there’s no way to reverse it. That’s why regular eye exams at Goetzinger Eye Institute are so important.

During your comprehensive eye exam, your provider at Goetzinger Eye Institute reviews your medical history. They may also take one or more of the following tests to check for signs of AMD:

• Visual acuity test
• Dilated eye exam
• Retinal imaging
• MacuLogix AdaptDx

With the revolutionary new MacuLogix AdaptDx test, the team at Goetzinger Eye Institute can detect subclinical AMD at least three years before visible changes occur in your eye. Early detection allows them to help you take proactive measures, such as taking nutritional supplements, to preserve your vision as long as possible.

To learn more about macular degeneration and AdaptDx testing, call Goetzinger Eye Institute or book an appointment online today.