Macular Degeneration Specialist
-
- Tweet
Beeve Vision Care Center
Scott Beeve, M.D., FACS
Ophthalmologist & LASIK Specialist located in Glendale, CA
Macular degeneration affects more than 10 million Americans and is the leading cause of vision loss. At Beeve Vision Care Center in Glendale, California, Dr. Scott Beeve offers comprehensive diagnostics and treatment for macular degeneration issues to prevent blindness. To learn more about treating and preventing macular degeneration, schedule an appointment online or by phone.
Macular Degeneration Q & A
What is macular degeneration?
Macular degeneration is the result of the deterioration of the central part of your retina, known as the macula. The retina is responsible for recording the images you see, sending them through your optic nerve and to your brain. It’s because of your retina that you can recognize people’s faces, see fine details in objects, and read a book.
There are two types of macular degeneration:
Dry
The dry type affects 80-90% of people with macular degeneration. Its cause is unknown but can be related to age. Small white or yellow deposits develop on your retina that causes degeneration of the macula over time.
Wet
Wet macular degeneration affects 10-15% of people with the condition but is responsible for causing severe vision loss in 90% of those affected. The condition is the result of abnormal blood vessels under the retina that grow toward the macula and leak fluid or break, causing retinal damage. With wet macular degeneration, you can develop a rapid loss of your central vision.
What are the risk factors for macular degeneration?
Age is the most prominent risk factor for macular degeneration. Your risks increase as you grow older and the condition is most common if you're 55 or older.
Other risk factors for macular degeneration include your family history. You may be at higher risk if the condition affects other members of your family. Race may also play a role, as Caucasians are more likely to develop macular degeneration than other races.
If you smoke cigarettes, your risk for macular degeneration doubles.
What treatments are available for macular degeneration?
There is no cure for macular degeneration, but Dr. Beeve can help you manage both the dry and wet forms of the condition effectively. Beeve Vision Care Center also offers the most state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic equipment to monitor your eye health.
Dr. Beeve may recommend lifestyle changes to prevent the further deterioration of your vision, including smoking cessation, well-balanced diet, and regular protection from the sun. Dr. Beeve also can use Avastin® therapeutic injections to prevent further vision loss.
To learn more about services to manage macular degeneration, schedule a consultation online or by calling the office.
