Macular degeneration is the most common cause of severe vision loss among adults over age 60. Retina specialists Scott Guess, MD, and Jacek Kotowski, MD, test for and treat macular degeneration at Rocky Mountain Eye Center clinics in Missoula and Hamilton, Montana. To find out what you can do to reduce your risk or slow the progression of macular degeneration, call or book an appointment online today.
The macula is a small spot at the center of your retina that allows you to focus on objects straight in front of you. This is the most sensitive part of your retina, made up of millions of light-sensing cells. These cells provide the sharp focus necessary to read, drive, and perform detail-oriented tasks.
When the macula starts to deteriorate, you experience central vision loss but maintain peripheral vision. For example, you may look at a clock and see the numbers but not the hands. Although macular degeneration doesn’t cause total blindness, the loss of central vision dramatically affects your quality of life.
There are two types of macular degeneration: dry and wet.
First, your doctor will perform a comprehensive eye exam and reviews your medical and family history. People with a family history of macular degeneration are at higher risk of developing this condition.
To diagnose macular degeneration, they may perform the following tests:
Once they diagnose your condition, you will be referred to Dr. Guess or Dr. Kotowski, and they will recommend the best course of treatment. Dry macular degeneration has no treatment, but healthy lifestyle changes, such as taking nutritional supplements, may slow the progression of the disease.
Dr. Guess or Dr. Kotowski may treat wet macular degeneration with medications or laser surgery.
To find out if you have macular degeneration, call Rocky Mountain Eye Center or book an appointment online today.