Diagnosing macular degeneration

In Americans over 60 years of age, macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss. According to the National Eye Institute, approximately 11 million Americans have age-related macular degeneration. The prevalence of macular degeneration has increased dramatically and the most significant risk factor is age. 

Diagnosing macular degeneration in Bellflower

The number of people living with early-stage macular degeneration in the US was estimated to be 18 million in 2019 while the number of people living with late-stage macular degeneration was estimated to be 1.5 million.

Are you looking for an optometrist near you for advanced diagnostics and care for macular degeneration? We welcome you to schedule an evaluation at Amplify EyeCare of Greater Long Beach. Our optometrists have extensive experience and the latest technology to provide advanced diagnosis and treatment for macular degeneration to patients from Bellflower and the surrounding communities. To schedule an eye exam call us at (562) 925-6591 or Book an Appointment .

Amplify Eyecare of Greater Long Beach

What is macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration is often referred to as "age-related macular degeneration" because it is more common in older individuals. However, it is not a normal part of aging and can occur at any age.

Macular degeneration is a serious eye condition that affects the central portion of the retina, known as the macula. The macula is responsible for providing clear, sharp vision, and when it is damaged, it can result in serious vision loss. If you are experiencing any changes in your vision or other symptoms of macular degeneration, it is important to visit a qualified eye doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How is macular degeneration diagnosed?

Diagnosing macular degeneration typically involves a comprehensive eye exam. This may include testing your visual acuity, or the clarity of your vision, as well as examining the health of your retina and macula. Your eye doctor may also use specialized imaging tests, such as fundus photography, dark matter adaptation, or optical coherence tomography (OCT), to assess the health of your macula and detect any signs of damage or disease.

In addition to the eye exam, your eye doctor may ask about your medical history and any risk factors you may have for macular degeneration, such as age, family history, or lifestyle habits.

Once you've been diagnosed with macular degeneration, our eye doctor will work with you to monitor the condition and ensure that if there are signs of progression you are referred to a retinal specialist for a treatment plan to help slow the progression of the disease and preserve your vision. This may include medications, lifestyle changes, or specialized therapies, such as intravitreal injections.

How is macular degeneration diagnosed?

Common symptoms of macular degeneration

  • Blurred or distorted central vision
  • Difficulty reading or performing other tasks that require fine vision
  • Decreased ability to see colors accurately or colors may seem brighter than normal
  • A dark or empty area in the center of your field of vision
  • Straight lines appearing wavy or distorted
  • Difficulty adjusting to changes in light 
  • Problems with driving at night 
  • Trouble seeing in low light 

Early detection and treatment can help to preserve your vision and maintain good eye health. To schedule an eye exam, please call (562) 925-6591.

 

The role of a low vision optometrist for macular degeneration 

A low vision optometrist works hand in hand with your retinal specialist to ensure that you are maximizing your remaining vision. While the Ophthalmologist or retinal specialist is ensuring that the disease does not progress, the low vision optometrist is helping the patient use their remaining vision to its full potential. It is important to visit a low vision optometrist even if you have earlier stages of macular degeneration.

Types of macular degeneration

Macular degeneration can be classified into two types: dry and wet. Dry macular degeneration is the most common form of the disease and is characterized by the gradual thinning and atrophy of the macula. This type of macular degeneration usually progresses slowly and can lead to vision loss over time. Wet macular degeneration is a more aggressive form of the disease and is characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the macula. These blood vessels can leak fluid or blood, leading to rapid vision loss and scarring of the macula. Wet macular degeneration is less common, but it is more likely to cause severe vision loss.

How is macular degeneration diagnosed?

How can I find a low vision optometrist near me?

If you are searching for a low vision optometrist, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced professional. A local optometrist or local eye doctor that specializes in low vision and has experience with helping patients who have macular degeneration can provide you with the necessary care and support to manage your eye health and utilize your vision to its full potential. Simply search for "low vision eye doctor near me" or "low vision optometrist near me" to find a list of eye doctors in your area. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family, or consult with your primary care doctor for a referral.

Common Questions

Unfortunately, there is no cure for macular degeneration. However, there are treatments available that can slow the progression of the disease and help to preserve vision. Our eye doctors will help you understand the treatment options, provide you with a referral to a trusted Ophthalmologist if needed, and guide you on the important steps that you should take to reduce risks and maximize your remaining vision. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with macular degeneration, or if you have risk factors for macular degeneration, call us to schedule an evaluation today at (562) 925-6591. We are proud to be a leading provider of advanced eye care conveniently located in Bellflower.
There are several risk factors for macular degeneration, including age, genetics, smoking, and a diet low in antioxidants. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with macular degeneration or are over the age of 50 and have any of the risk factors listed above, call us to schedule an evaluation today at (562) 925-6591. We are proud to be a leading provider of advanced eye care for patients from Bellflower, Long Beach, Lakewood, and Los Angeles.
Are you looking for an optometrist near you for macular degeneration? We welcome you to schedule an evaluation at Amplify EyeCare of Greater Long Beach. Our optometrists have extensive experience and the latest technology to provide advanced diagnosis and care for macular degeneration to patients from Bellflower and the surrounding communities. To schedule an eye exam call us at (562) 925-6591 or Book an Appointment .
Diagnosing macular degeneration
Dr. Ikeda cartoon

Schedule a medical eye exam for macular degeneration in Bellflower

We are proud to be a leading provider of advanced medical and specialty eyecare in Bellflower. Our eye doctors have extensive experience helping patients with macular degeneration, and our office boasts advanced technology for early diagnosis and effective management of eye disease. If you have a family history of macular degeneration and live in or near Bellflower, call us at (562) 925-6591 to schedule an eye exam today.

Testimonials


I haven't actually used the optometrist side, so my review is limited to the vision therapy offered.  This office was recommended by my occupational therapist for the treatment of my double vision following a stroke.


Claire A.

Love this location. I had a brain injury accident from day one one. All the team make you feel you still important and hope in the horizon after when the medical system fell you miserably. Dr. Ikeda very professional and very understanding about your issue. Two tombs up.


Jim K.

My husband and I were immediately impressed with Dr Ikeda. I was hit by a car while cycling which caused broken bones and three brain injuries. The brain injuries caused double vision. Dr. Ikeda examined my eyes and got me started on vision therapy with his occupational therapist who specializes in vision therapy.  She (Chris) is absolutely great.  I am impressed with the array of tools used to help recover my binocular vision.  I am doing things I never thought were possible (balance boards etc).  Chris pushes me and keeps me motivated. I really enjoy my sessions with her.  The office staff is always friendly and they have a wonderful appointment reminder tool that makes it easy to keep my calendar up to date. I am happy the rehab center at Little Co. of Mary recommended them!!


Teresa S.

The Vision Therapy is handled in a separate office through a different door from the shared waiting room. Chris, the vision therapist, has a wide and varied assortment of tools, equipment and resources to best evaluate and treat most vision issues. After just a few visits, my double vision became easier to control, using exercises developed during the therapy process. It was time well-spent.


Joe M.

I have been coming here since I can remember. I love it here. The staff is so amazing and nice. They explain everything they gonna do and never make you feel rushed. Dr. Ikeda has always been my doctor and I would never want another one. He is the doctor for my whole family and is always asking how everyone is doing. I am also so crazy about picking out my frames and have to try so many and each person who helps me take the time and lets me try them all on. I would never want to go anywhere else! I definitely would recommend this office to anyone looking for a great eye doctor.


Kayla W.

This is not for the eye exam but for the frames selection portion. I brought my prescription from Kaiser here with my VSP insurance. The reception staff was very polite and professional.  Manny helped me to pick out frames and explain my coverage.  Very helpful and patient not like the individual at the other place I rated here on Yelp.  I was running late and he still helped me and was not bothered at all.  I am so glad I came here ..........very pleased.

Very professional staff and pleasant.


Daniel G.
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