Eye Exams for Age-Related Macular Degeneration, New York, NY 

The doctors at Dr. Gary Tracy Optometry & Eyewear on the Upper West Side can diagnose age-related macular degeneration in its earliest stages, often before symptoms or vision loss occurs. While there is no cure for age-related macular degeneration, early detection and treatment of this disease can minimize or even prevent vision loss.     

What is age-related macular degeneration?    

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, a part of the retina responsible for central vision. It is the leading cause of severe vision loss in adults over the age of 50.  

What are the signs of age-related macular degeneration?   

During the early stages of age-related macular degeneration, you may not notice any symptoms. As the disease progresses, you may notice your vision seems blurry, colors appear faded, straight lines appear wavy, and you have a hard time seeing in dim lighting.

Types of age-related macular degeneration    

There are two main types of AMD: dry and wet. 

• Dry AMD is the most common form of AMD, accounting for about 85-90% of cases. It occurs when the light-sensitive cells in the macula gradually break down, causing a slow loss of central vision. 
• Wet AMD is more serious. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the macula, leaking fluid and blood into the retina. This can lead to rapid and severe vision loss. 

Treatment for age-related macular degeneration  

There are currently no treatments for dry AMD, but taking nutritional supplements may slow its progression and reduce your risk of late-stage or wet AMD.     

If you are diagnosed with wet AMD, symptoms usually appear suddenly and worsen quickly. Fortunately, treatments such as photodynamic therapy, laser surgery, and anti-VEGF injections help prevent vision loss. Your eye doctor at Dr. Gary Tracy Optometry & Eyewear can assess your visual and eye health needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your specific case.   

Schedule an eye exam on the Upper West Side 

Regular eye exams are crucial for people of all ages, especially if they are at high risk of developing AMD. If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, schedule an appointment at Dr. Gary Tracy Optometry & Eyewear on 79th Street, a half block west of Amsterdam Avenue. Our team of experts offers eye exams to diagnose a wide range of eye diseases and other issues, including AMD.  

While losing all your sight due to AMD is rare, your vision may still be compromised. Our dedicated doctors will provide treatments to help maintain and potentially improve your situation.