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Macular Degeneration Management

Wet AMD

The doctor’s role in wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) management includes:

  • Diagnosing and monitoring disease progression through imaging and vision tests.
  • Administering treatments, such as anti-VEGF injections to slow vision loss.
  • Educating patients on lifestyle changes and disease management.
  • Referring patients to low-vision specialists if vision loss becomes severe.

To assess wet AMD, our team will perform several tests:

  • Visual Acuity Test – Measures how well you can see letters on an eye chart.
  • Amsler Grid Test – A simple test to check for distorted or wavy vision.
  • Dilated Eye Exam – Uses eye drops to widen the pupil and examine the retina.
  • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – A high-resolution scan that detects fluid or swelling in the macula.
  • Fundus Photography – Takes detailed pictures of the retina to track changes over time.
  • Fluorescein Angiography (FA) – A dye is injected into a vein to highlight abnormal blood vessels in the retina. The doctor may refer the patient for diagnostic imaging as FA is not performed in the office.

Since wet AMD is caused by abnormal, leaky blood vessels in the retina, the goal is to stop further damage and preserve vision. Treatments include anti-VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) injections and laser therapy.

Dry AMD

Since dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) progresses gradually, the doctor’s role focuses on:

  • Diagnosing and monitoring the disease’s progression.
  • Providing lifestyle and nutritional guidance to slow vision loss.
  • Recommending low-vision aids for those with advanced AMD.
  • Discussing emerging treatments if available.

To assess dry AMD, our team will perform several tests:

  • Visual Acuity Test – Measures how well you can see letters on an eye chart.
  • Amsler Grid Test – Checks for wavy, distorted, or missing vision in the central field.
  • Dilated Eye Exam – Uses drops to widen the pupil and examine the macula for drusen (yellow deposits), a key sign of dry AMD.
  • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – A high-resolution scan to detect retinal thinning or early signs of fluid buildup.
  • Fundus Photography – Takes detailed pictures of the retina to track changes over time.

Since dry AMD has no cure, the goal is to slow progression and preserve vision as long as possible. The doctor may recommend treatments/management such as vitamin supplements, low-vision aids and support, as well as guide the patient on any emerging treatments.