Macular Degeneration
Seeing Changes in Your Vision?
What Is Macular Degeneration?
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Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects your macula, the part of your retina responsible for central vision. Dry AMD occurs when the macula becomes thinner, causing gradual vision changes. Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels leak and cause scarring of the macula, resulting in sudden changes in central vision. If left untreated, this disease can result in permanent vision loss. In fact, it is the leading cause of vision loss among people over 50.
Macular Degeneration Risk Factors
Certain people are more likely to experience age-related macular degeneration than others. They include people who are:
Over 50
Have a Family History of AMD
Eat Nutrient-Poor Diets
Smoke or Have Smoked
If you have any of these risk factors, or if it has been awhile since your last eye exam, you owe it to yourself to undergo a comprehensive eye exam. It is absolutely possible to have age-related macular degeneration and be unaware. Don't wait until your vision changes to undergo a vision assessment.
Early Detection Can Save Your Vision Visit Cohen Eye Associates, Limited
Early detection is essential when it comes to minimizing the effects of age-related macular degeneration.
The quicker we can diagnose your condition, the sooner we can treat you. Simple lifestyle changes, injections, or surgery can keep the disease from progressing or causing blindness. Our St. Louis practice can assess your needs and provide the appropriate treatment.
Instead of waiting, get in touch with Dr. Cohen and Dr. Noonan now. Send a message to Cohen Eye Associates, Limited or call
(314) 361-5003
St. Louis Trusts Cohen Eye Associates
Lisa Pletz
2022
Love the caring, cheerful, & helpfulness of this staff ! Had all the answers I needed. Even though my appointment was on a holiday they didn’t seem to mind at all
View on GoogleDonna Burds
2021
Everyone with whom I interacted at Cohen Eye Associates was friendly and professional. Each person took whatever time was needed to assess my vision and answer my questions.
View on GoogleThe Two Types of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Dry AMD
About 80% of AMD cases are dry AMD. It has a gradual progression that occurs as the cells of the macula die, but aren't replaced. As a result, the macula becomes thinner. This can cause dark spots in your vision, faded colors, sensitivity to light, and straight lines appearing wavy. It can eventually develop into wet AMD.
Wet AMD
Wet AMD is the most dangerous type of macular degeneration. It has a faster onset, and can result in permanent vision loss. It is caused by abnormal blood vessels developing under the macula. These blood vessels can leak, which scars the macula and causes sudden changes in your vision.
Treating Dry AMD
Dry AMD has no cure, but you can take measures to slow down its progression. These include eating a healthy diet, exercising, taking vitamin supplements, and stopping smoking. Our doctors can provide you with a personalized plan to protect your vision.
Is Macular Degeneration Painful?
No, macular degeneration does not cause pain. That is actually a significant reason why it's so dangerous — and why macular degeneration may advance undetected.
Because the condition does not hurt, patients experiencing the disease may think that they do not need treatment. This is just one reason why regular eye exams are so important.
If you are at risk of developing macular degeneration, overdue for an exam, or noticing changes in your vision, it's time to book a comprehensive eye exam with us.
How Do Doctors Detect Macular Degeneration?
Our doctors can test for this eye disease at your routine eye appointment using a pupil dilation test.
After placing drops in your eye, your doctor will wait for your pupil to dilate, or become larger. This lets more light enter your retina at once, which allows your doctor to use advanced tools to examine your retina and determine if age-related macular degeneration or other ocular health conditions are affecting your vision.
We're Here for You And Your Loved Ones
"It's always a pleasant and professional atmosphere." Hear From Our St. Louis Patients
Lori Jones
2022
I had a great clinic visit. Dr. Noonan is my doctor and Reshanda performed most of my eye tests. Everyone in the office was friendly and professional. They really listened to me and took what I wanted and needed into consideration.
View on GoogleSandra Correnti
2022
It's always a pleasant and professional atmosphere, which is why I've continued seeing Dr. Cohen for so many years. I recommend him to anyone needing eye care.
View on GoogleWe Offer Multiple Payment Options To Make Eye Disease Treatment Affordable
Insurance
Macular degeneration treatment is usually covered by your medical insurance. We will gladly work with your insurance provider to secure the best possible coverage.
Cash and Credit
In the event that your visit to our St. Louis practice also includes procedures or products not covered by insurance, you can also pay with cash or major credit cards.
Financing
We also work with CareCredit®, a third-party lender that can allow you to pay for any out-of-pocket expenses in low-interest monthly payments.
