Wantagh, NY
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Wantagh, NY
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
At Dr. Neil Rubin Optometry, we offer comprehensive diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment for macular degeneration in Wantagh, New York. Dr. Neil Rubin provides the highest standard of care, taking time to explain your condition, answer your questions, and recommend the best options to help protect your vision.
What is macular degeneration?
Macular degeneration, often referred to as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is an eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of your retina that allows you to see objects directly in front of you. As the name implies, AMD is most common in people over 50 and is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults.
There are two main types of macular degeneration. Dry AMD is the most common and progresses slowly due to thinning of the macula. Wet AMD is less common but more severe, causing faster vision loss from leaking blood vessels under the retina. Any stage of dry AMD can progress to wet AMD, but wet AMD is always late-stage AMD.
What causes macular degeneration?
While the exact cause of AMD isn’t fully understood, several factors can increase your risk, including:
- Aging (especially over age 50)
- Family history of AMD
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- A diet low in leafy greens and antioxidants
- Prolonged UV exposure
Macular degeneration treatment in Wantagh, NY
While there is currently no cure for macular degeneration, early diagnosis and consistent management can help slow progression and protect your sight. Dr. Rubin offers tailored treatment plans depending on the type and stage of your AMD.
Dry age-related macular degeneration treatment typically consists of monitoring progression through regular exams and lifestyle changes such as better nutrition, quitting smoking, and taking AREDS 2 supplements to slow progression. Wet age macular degeneration treatment generally involves anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, or photodynamic therapy to stop abnormal blood vessel growth and preserve vision.
Schedule a macular degeneration eye exam in Wantagh
If you’re experiencing changes in your central vision, such as blurriness, dark spots, or difficulty seeing fine detail, it’s important to schedule an eye exam. Dr. Neil Rubin uses state-of-the-art technology to monitor for macular degeneration and create a treatment plan that fits your life. For expert dry or wet age-related macular degeneration treatment in Wantagh, schedule an appointment at our office today.