Macular Degeneration

Up to 1 in 10 Americans 50 and older has macular degeneration, a chronic disease that causes vision loss. At Vistasite Eye Care in The Bronx, New York City, experienced optometrist Rostislav Ryvkin, OD, provides comprehensive care for macular degeneration. Dr. Ryvkin’s knowledge and expertise allow him to safely manage macular degeneration and prevent it from worsening. Call Vistasite Eye Care in The Bronx today to schedule macular degeneration treatment, or book your appointment online. 

My vision is blurry; could I have macular degeneration?

It’s possible. Macular degeneration is an eye disease that damages the macula –– a part of the retina responsible for your central vision. Macular degeneration commonly affects people who are middle-aged and older. It’s especially common in those aged 65 or over. 

Are there different types of macular degeneration?

At Vistasite Eye Care, Dr. Ryvkin treats both types of macular degeneration:

Dry macular degeneration (AMD)

This type causes your macula to become weak due to aging. As your macula wears down, clumps of protein (drusen) grow, affecting your central vision.

Wet macular degeneration (AMD)

This type causes new blood vessels to form underneath your retina. As the vessels grow, they leak blood and other fluids, causing permanent macula damage.

What are the risk factors for macular degeneration?

Anyone can develop macular degeneration, but several factors increase your risk, including:

• Having a family history of the disease
• Smoking cigarettes
• Having high blood pressure (hypertension) 
• Being 50 or older

Lifestyle factors can also play a role. For example, you’re more likely to develop macular degeneration if you’re overweight. 

How does an optometrist diagnose macular degeneration?

Dr. Ryvkin reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes an eye exam. During the exam, he has you look at an Amsler grid –– a chart that helps identify blurry, distorted, or blank spots in your vision. 

He also examines your eyes with a special lens, checking for damage to your retina and macula. If these measures don’t provide enough information, Dr. Ryvkin dilates your pupils with special eye drops, making it easier to see the structures at the back of your eyes.

How does an optometrist treat macular degeneration?

Treatment of macular degeneration depends on the type and severity of your symptoms. Dr. Ryvkin might suggest:

Dry AMD

There’s no cure for dry AMD, but healthy lifestyle changes slow its progression. Dr. Ryvkin might recommend losing weight, eating a healthier diet, and taking nutritional supplements, such as Vitamin C and E, to support your eyesight.

Wet AMD

If you have wet AMD, Dr. Ryvkin prescribes anti-VEGF drugs. These medications reduce the number of abnormal blood vessels in your retina. Dr. Ryvkin administers anti-VEGF drugs via injection during a quick outpatient procedure.

Call Vistasite Eye Care in The Bronx today to explore the treatment options for macular degeneration, or book your appointment online.