senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(402) 420-2020

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 EyeCare Specialties - Superior 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 EyeCare Specialties - Superior 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
4.6
400 Reviews
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- Nov. 14, 2024
Very professional, very cleanbusiness. I liked Dr Brian Brightman, friendly personality, explains ... everything.
- Nov. 14, 2024
The employees are professional and very helpful!
- Sep. 11, 2024
Doc knew exactly what was wrong. Made arrangements right away. Knows his stuff. All done and seeing ... great. Said I was the poster child for healing. Made me happy at my age to know I still heal well.
- Aug. 22, 2024
Excellent service, Dr. Stille goes above and beyond. Their knowledgeable associates assisted me with... picking out the perfect new glasses and sunglasses. Very happy with my most recent visit.
- Jul. 24, 2024
Awesome care! Super nice staff! 5 stars!
- Jul. 07, 2024
Great optometrist!
- Jul. 04, 2024
Dr Brian Brightman is amazing, along with his staff. The frame selection is top notch, as is the ass... istance of the staff in this area.
- Jun. 25, 2024
No complaints
- Jun. 24, 2024
Very happy with my exam and new glasses!
- May. 11, 2024
very good
- Apr. 27, 2024
Justine is the best in finding the right frame for your face!!!
- Feb. 15, 2024
The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and takes the time to suit your needs. Large selection of eyewe... ar products.
- Jan. 24, 2024
I like that they have technology that can go in depth to gain knowledge of your overall eye health.... My experience overall with the staff was great and I look forward to returning for future visits.
- Jan. 01, 2024
Great experience & excellent customer service from everyone I came into contact with!!
- Dec. 07, 2023
Always give great service
- Nov. 28, 2023
Short wait time, excellent and knowledgeable staff and doctor. Over all 10/10!
- Sep. 23, 2023
Simple straightforward process to picking out glasses!
- Aug. 31, 2023
Great service! Was seen timely and Dr. Stille took the time to hear our concerns and address them. ... Highly recommended!!!
- Jul. 28, 2023
Everything’s good for me
- Jun. 29, 2023
Great customer service with the staff.

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Macular Degeneration Treatment in Lincoln

Our optometry practice in Lincoln

Photograph of Brian  Brightman
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • EyeMed
  • Blue Cross

senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

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

(402) 420-2020