Macular Degeneration: Early Treatment Key to Preventing Vision Loss


You have probably heard older family members or friends say they have been diagnosed with macular degeneration. They are not alone. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects more than 1.75 million people in this country, a number expected to rise to nearly 3 million over the next 10 years due to our rapidly aging population. 

“Unfortunately, AMD often does not have symptoms and may not be recognized until it affects both eyes,” says Richard Wyszynski, M.D., of Cleveland Clinic Ophthalmology/Lakeland Eye based at Lakewood Hospital and at five other west-side locations.

“The first sign of AMD is usually the distortion of straight lines or blurred vision. This may progress to a gradual loss of central vision,” says Dr. Wyszynski. Other symptoms may include the center of vision becoming dark, white out of the central vision, diminished or changed color perception, and objects appearing smaller or farther away.

“Early detection is key to avoiding vision loss,” says Dr. Wyszynski. “See an ophthalmologist immediately if you ever notice anything wrong.”

While there is no cure for AMD, there are treatments that can help preserve eyesight and prevent future vision loss. They include injectable drug therapy, photodynamic therapy, laser treatment, surgery, and vitamin and mineral supplements. Researchers are also studying new treatments for AMD that may be available soon.

“If you carry the diagnosis of AMD and have loss of vision, you should see an eye doctor immediately. In addition, it’s important to see your eye doctor regularly,” says Dr. Wyszynski. “There are new treatments that can maintain and even improve vision, so the sooner they are started, the better.”

Cleveland Clinic Ophthalmology/Lakeland Eye is conveniently located on the fifth floor of the Lakewood Hospital Professional Building, located across the street from hospital. Ophthalmologists at this location are able to diagnose and treat eye disorders including macular degeneration, retinal detachments, tumors such as melanomas, retinal vascular problems, inherited problems such as retinitis pigmentosa (night blindness) and vitreous separations. In addition, optometrists provide a full range of routine eye care.

To schedule an appointment at Cleveland Clinic Ophthalmology/Lakeland Eye, call 216.529.5320.