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Age-Related Macular Degeneration Safeguard Your Most Essential Sight

When your central vision blurs or distorts, everyday tasks like reading fine print or recognizing familiar faces become increasingly difficult. At Cohen Eye Institute, we understand that AMD doesn’t just affect how you see; it affects how you live. That’s why we approach age-related macular degeneration with a preventive mindset, advanced imaging, and personalized care to preserve your most crucial visual field before damage becomes irreversible. Dr. Ilan Cohen, a fellowship-trained eye surgeon with over 80,000 procedures performed, is trusted by patients and physicians to detect and manage eye diseases with uncommon precision, even in their early stages. Whether showing signs of AMD or at risk, our team delivers proactive, thoughtful care designed to keep you independent, engaged, and confident in your vision.

What Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye condition that damages the macula, a small but crucial area at the retina's center. This portion of the eye is essential for tasks like reading, driving, and recognizing faces, as it provides high-resolution central vision. AMD occurs in two main forms: dry (atrophic) and wet (neovascular).

Dry AMD, the more common variant, involves the macula gradually thinning over time, often accompanied by tiny deposits called drusen. Wet AMD, on the other hand, develops when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak fluid or blood, leading to faster and more severe vision changes. Left unchecked, AMD can make everyday activities increasingly difficult.

Early detection and consistent monitoring are vital, as intervention strategies may significantly slow the progression and preserve the quality of your central vision. While there's no one-size-fits-all cure, modern treatments and lifestyle adaptations can dramatically help individuals retain functional eyesight.

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Causes of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is known to have several potential causes:

Oxidative Damage

Over time, oxidative stress can accumulate in retinal cells, contributing to tissue breakdown in the macula. Factors like ultraviolet (UV) exposure and poor diet can accelerate this damage, making it a key contributor to dry and wet AMD.

Inflammation

Chronic inflammation in the retina may exacerbate macular deterioration. Whether driven by environmental triggers or underlying health conditions, inflammation can disrupt normal cell function and weaken the delicate macular region.

Abnormal Blood Vessel Growth

With wet AMD, new, fragile blood vessels form beneath the retina. These vessels often leak fluid or blood, damaging retinal cells and accelerating vision loss. Identifying this abnormal growth early is crucial for managing the more aggressive nature of wet AMD.

Genetic Factors

A family history of AMD can raise your risk. Researchers have identified specific genes linked to the condition, suggesting that inherited tendencies can make some individuals more prone to developing macular degeneration as they age.

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Symptoms of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Even mild AMD can present telltale signs. Common indicators include the following:

  • Blurry or fuzzy central vision
  • Difficulty recognizing faces
  • Dark or empty areas in the center of vision
  • Distorted straight lines (they may appear wavy)
  • Diminished color vibrancy
  • Increased need for bright lighting
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Risk Factors of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age stands out as one of the most significant risk factors—AMD primarily affects people over 50. Smoking is also strongly associated with a higher likelihood of macular damage. Other risk factors include having a close relative with AMD, being Caucasian, and consuming a diet lacking in essential nutrients like antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Persistent exposure to intense sunlight without adequate eye protection can further aggravate oxidative damage. Managing these risk factors—quitting smoking, improving dietary habits, or wearing protective eyewear—can significantly influence the progression and impact of AMD.

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Treatments for Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Although there's no definitive cure for AMD, various treatment options can slow progression, manage symptoms, and, in some cases, improve existing vision challenges.

Antioxidant Vitamins

High-dose combinations of vitamins C, E, beta-carotene, zinc, and copper—often referred to as the AREDS (Age-Related Eye Disease Study) formulation—have been shown to reduce the risk of progression in certain forms of AMD. These supplements can help combat oxidative stress on the retina.

Anti-Angiogenic Drugs

Medications that inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) for wet AMD can be injected into the eye. These drugs help control fluid buildup and reduce retinal damage by limiting new, leaky blood vessel growth, potentially stabilizing or improving central vision.

Laser Therapy

A focused laser beam can seal off abnormal blood vessels in select cases. While this approach may not cure AMD, it can help prevent additional fluid leakage and further decline in visual acuity. Laser therapy is typically reserved for specific types of wet AMD.

Photodynamic Therapy

This treatment involves injecting a light-activated drug into the bloodstream. The drug targets and closes abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina when exposed to a low-power laser beam. Although less common than anti-VEGF therapy, photodynamic therapy remains an option for certain wet AMD cases where other methods may be less effective.

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Why Choose Cohen Eye Institute?

At Cohen Eye Institute, you’re not just another patient—we treat AMD with the same level of precision and personalization we bring to complex surgical cases. Led by Dr. Ilan Cohen, a nationally recognized corneal and retinal surgeon, our practice is equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic technology to detect macular changes early and tailor treatments at every stage.

More than 1,000 physicians have entrusted their vision to Dr. Cohen, a testament to our clinical excellence and trusted outcomes. Whether you need ongoing monitoring, anti-VEGF injections, or lifestyle-based strategies for dry AMD, you’ll receive transparent, high-touch care focused on protecting your most important vision.

Frequently Asked Questions Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Is it possible to have both dry and wet AMD in the same eye?

Yes. Dry AMD can progress to wet AMD over time, meaning some individuals may exhibit signs of both forms. Regular exams help detect any transition early.

Can a change in diet help my AMD?

A balanced diet rich in dark leafy greens, fatty fish, and antioxidants can support retinal health. While diet alone may not halt progression, it can enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.

Does cataract surgery worsen AMD?

Cataract surgery doesn't usually accelerate AMD, though monitoring retinal health is essential. Your surgeon will assess the macula during preoperative evaluations and tailor advice accordingly.

Are there any lifestyle adjustments beyond diet that help?

Quitting smoking, wearing UV-protective eyewear, and managing systemic conditions like high blood pressure can all contribute to better outcomes and may slow AMD progression.

What happens if treatments stop working?

If AMD advances despite existing therapies, low-vision aids and rehabilitation programs can help optimize remaining vision, allowing you to maintain independence in daily tasks.

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Guiding you toward the procedure that fits your unique needs, so you can see the world clearly and confidently.

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