senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(407) 295-1234

What Is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration, also called AMD or age-related macular degeneration, occurs when the macula — the central portion of the retina — begins to wear down, causing central vision loss.

People who suffer from AMD tend to lose their “straight ahead” vision, making it difficult to read, drive, and recognize faces. 

Total vision loss is unlikely, as there's typically enough peripheral vision to allow for other activities of daily life. 

Man with macular degeneration


Types of Macular Degeneration:

macular degeneration types

  • Dry AMD: small deposits called drusen damage retinal nerve cells and reduce vision
  • Wet AMD: new blood vessels form that leak and release fluid that harms the macula. This is a more severe form of AMD that can more quickly cause vision loss.

Don’t Let AMD Rob You of Your Sight

An estimated 196 million people are living with macular degeneration worldwide. Although those affected by it rarely lose all their vision, the vast majority suffer from some degree of vision loss. 

While there is currently no cure for AMD, there are certain treatments that can slow its progression — and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

If you think you're at risk or are experiencing symptoms, contact Orlando Eyecare today. We can diagnose and help treat the disease.


Risk Factors for AMD

  • Aged 50+

    The onset of AMD usually happens over the age of 50 and increases substantially with time. For instance, a 2% risk at age 55 can turn into a 30% risk by age 75.

  • Lifestyle factors

    Smoking or eating a diet high in saturated fat can increase your risk of AMD. Furthermore, these habits increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease–two additional risk factors for AMD.

  • Obesity

    Research shows that people with a BMI of over 30 double their chances of developing AMD.

  • Family History

    If you have a close relative with AMD, you have a higher risk of developing this eye condition.


How to Stop the Progression of Macular Degeneration

While there isn’t yet a cure for AMD or an effective way of reversing vision loss that has already occurred, you can take certain steps and adopt new habits to slow the progression of the disease.

Furthermore, certain treatments can slow its progression and low vision aids that can increase independent functioning.

Talk to us about how you can slow the progression of the disease and avoid vision loss by contacting Orlando Eyecare today. 

Photograph


Macular Degeneration FAQs

What are the first signs of AMD?

You may have AMD and not know it. Typically, symptoms may not develop until the advanced stage of the eye disease.

First signs of AMD may include: 

  • Blurred vision
  • Blind spots or dark spots
  • Straight lines appearing distorted or wavy
  • Faded colors 

 For early detection and better outcomes, it's important to undergo regular eye exams at our eye clinic, especially if you have a family history of AMD or other risk factors. 

How common is macular degeneration?

Statistics indicate that 8.7% of the world population has macular degeneration. The rate of AMD is expected to increase from 196 million in 2022 to 288 million by 2040.

What is the best treatment for macular degeneration?

Currently, the most common treatment for wet AMD is the injection of medications called anti-VEGF agents. High levels of VEGF in the eye increase the formation of abnormal blood vessels that cause much of the damage in wet AMD.

Patient Reviews
4.9
114 Reviews
5
4
3
2
1
- Mar. 24, 2025
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!!
- Mar. 18, 2025
My entire service was great. From check in, to testing (awesome upgraded machines), the doctor aweso... me. The staff - super. Every single person there was eager to help & very informational to all questions, concerns & options.
- Mar. 12, 2025
I've been going to this eye clinic 25 years. They are the best!
- Mar. 11, 2025
I have been going here for over 10 years. The staff is wonderful very professional and treat you lik... e family always accommodating.
- Mar. 10, 2025
The doctor and entire staff are very professional and friendly. This is my second year as a customer... with Orlando Eye Care and I’m am truly satisfied with the quality of my glasses and the quality of care!
- Mar. 03, 2025
Very good custormer service,i feel welcome there
- Feb. 28, 2025
I had a great experience with Orlando Eyecare. The Doctor and staff are professional. I can see so m... uch better than I did before. I recommend them with no reservations.
- Jan. 25, 2025
Outstanding care
- Jan. 25, 2025
Great care by Dr. Smith and his staff!
- Jan. 21, 2025
Excellent Customer Service
- Jan. 15, 2025
Amazing provider!
- Jan. 09, 2025
We have been going here for years love the service and the people
- Jan. 09, 2025
Very professional, personal service. Staff very cordial. Dr. Smith is the best at explaining all tes... ts.
- Jan. 05, 2025
We've been going to Orlando Eyecare for over 25 years and the service is always exceptional!
- Dec. 24, 2024
I have been a patient here for almost 40 years and could not imagine going anywhere else.The staff a... re great, super friendly and quick to resolve any concerns and Dr Smith is one in a million!! I would highly recommend Orlando Eye care to everyone!!
- Dec. 06, 2024
Fantastic customer service, great prices and fast service.
- Dec. 05, 2024
My husband and I have been seeing Dr. Smith and the team at Orlando Eyecare for 10+ years. They are ... kind and compassionate, and treat their patients like family. I would (and have) recommend this office to anyone in need of an excellent eye doctor.
- Nov. 28, 2024
Great staff! Excellent care.
- Nov. 16, 2024
If you’d like a personalized Eyecare Doctor and staff, with the best service in central FL, go to ... Orlando Eyecare. They are amazing. Always willing to help give you the best care possible.
- Nov. 12, 2024
Dr. Smith and his team are amazing. Have been coming here for years and will continue to come here n... o matter how far I live. Can’t beat the quality care you get from here.

View All 114 Reviews

Macular Degeneration Treatment in Orlando

Our optometry practice in Orlando

Photograph of R. Kirk  Smith
Hours
  • Monday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 1:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • Aetna
  • Avesis
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Cigna
  • Davis Vision
  • EyeMed
  • Humana
  • Medicare Part B
  • Spectera
  • United Healthcare
  • VSP

senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

Don’t let AMD stop you from doing the things you love.

(407) 295-1234