senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(970) 731-4300

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 ABBA Eye Care - Pagosa Springs 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 ABBA Eye Care - Pagosa Springs 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
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200 Reviews
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- Sep. 28, 2024
The staff here is phenomenal
- Aug. 25, 2024
Great experience and staff outstanding!
- Aug. 20, 2024
I had a virtual eye exam for the first time today and it was so easy and relaxed! The remote Dr was ... nice and answered all my questions - Got cute glasses and sunglasses and they had great packages/discounts which is always awesome. I won’t go anywhere else, thanks ladies of ABBA Eye Care!
- Aug. 03, 2024
First time having a virtual exam and the staff were all very helpful at explaining the process. Rel... axed atmosphere and friendly staff. All questions were answered and test results explained. Can' wait to get my new glasses.
- Aug. 01, 2024
I've had a lot of eye exams since I was a kid in the 90s and 2000s, technology has come a long way. ... This was definitely the coolest experience so far.
- Jul. 13, 2024
The staff at this location are awesome! Everyone was friendly, knowledge, helpful and efficient. The... Doctor I saw took the time to answer all my questions and the staff helped me to pick out the perfect pair of glasses! Definitely recommend them!
- Jun. 26, 2024
Passed through on a road trip and need emergency eye glass repair…done with a smile. Thank you �... ��
- Jun. 24, 2024
I had a wonderful experience with ABBA Eye Care! Thank you for helping make my day better and guide ... me through the process.
- Jun. 19, 2024
I am not sure if my other review was received. Soooo here is another one. The staff at Abba Eye Care... was fantastic. Everyone was very friendly and helpful. I actually had a good time taking the eye exam. The remote doctors were as friendly and helpful as the people at Abba. I am 72 years old and this is the first prescription glasses I have ever owned. I am very happy and look forward to getting the glasses. A special thanks to Michel who helped me through the eye exam and choosing the frames plus she is the first person to ask for my autograph in 35 years. HA!
- Jun. 16, 2024
The staff are friendly, kind, and helpful. I am so glad I chose this place for my eye care checkup
- Apr. 18, 2024
The best place, they are patient and super helpful and willing to take every ounce of precaution to ... insure you will be well taken care of. Very friendly atmosphere I always go in With anxiety and leave with confidence.
- Apr. 01, 2024
We've been treated very well each time we're in for an appointment. Moved here in 2001, and have bee... n served by Abba Eyecare ever since.
- Mar. 30, 2024
Great people work here. Terrific selection for products. Quick turnaround for glasses orders was ver... y nice.
- Nov. 21, 2023
Great Team of friendly, patient, knowledgeable professionals.
- Nov. 05, 2023
I am so grateful for the technology and prompt referral from the local staff. Angie did a great job ... spotting a potential problem and referring me for advanced care, not otherwise possible in our small mountain community. Thx Abba.
- Jun. 18, 2023
Very nice and helpful staff
- Jun. 13, 2023
The staff is friendly and efficient.
- Jun. 10, 2023
Friendly nice good experience enjoyed it have a good day
- May. 24, 2023
Very welcoming staff! They are always friendly and happy!
- May. 13, 2023
Had a problem and was seen right away. Also a great selection of frames and sunglasses.

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Macular Degeneration Treatment in Pagosa Springs

Our optometry practice in Pagosa Springs

Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 8:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • Medicaid
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • EyeMed
  • Blue Cross

senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

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

(970) 731-4300