Macular Degeneration (AMD) in The Villages, FL

What is AMD?

The macula is a small spot in the center of the retina. It lets you read, see faces and thread a needle. In AMD the macula breaks down with age. There are two main types. Dry AMD is more common, and wet AMD is less common but can progress faster.

AMD does not cause total blindness on its own, because side vision usually stays. Still, losing the center can make daily jobs such as reading, driving and cooking harder.

Common symptoms

Early AMD often has no symptoms. Later you may notice blurry or wavy areas in your central vision. Straight lines may look bent, and reading or recognizing faces may get hard. If straight lines suddenly look wavy, call us soon.

Call right away if this happens. Sudden flashes of light, a shower of new floaters, a curtain over your vision, sudden vision loss or a chemical in the eye: call (352) 399-5412 right away, or go to the nearest emergency room.

Who is at risk?

• Age 55 and older
• A family history of AMD
• Smoking
• White race

What an AMD exam looks like

When you come in for Macular Degeneration (AMD) in The Villages, first tell us about any wavy lines or blurry spots. Then Dr. Russell checks your sharpest vision and looks at the macula. A dilated exam gives him a clear view. Retinal imaging such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) can show fine detail, and it may reduce the need for dilation.

If you do get drops, your near vision may be blurry for a few hours. Because of that, bring sunglasses and ask someone to drive you home.

Questions to ask your eye doctor

For example, ask which type of AMD you have, if any. You can also ask how often to return and how to check your sight at home. In addition, ask whether a vitamin and mineral formula makes sense for you. Then bring a family member, so they can hear the answers too.

Everyday tips

Because AMD affects the center of your sight, light matters. With Macular Degeneration (AMD) in The Villages, many people also find that bright, even light in the kitchen and by the reading chair helps. Brighter light and larger print often help with reading. Also, check a straight line, such as a door frame, each day. If it looks wavy, call us. Not smoking and eating leafy greens and fish may also help.

Treatment options

With early AMD, your doctor watches your eyes with regular exams. If you have intermediate AMD, your doctor may advise a certain vitamin and mineral formula, so ask first. A retina specialist treats wet AMD, usually with injections in the eye.

Help With Macular Degeneration (AMD) in The Villages

Our care for Macular Degeneration (AMD) in The Villages starts with the macula. Dr. Russell examines it and looks for early change. We also teach you how to check your own sight at home. If signs of wet AMD appear, we refer you quickly to a trusted retina specialist and co-manage your care. Dr. Russell is an optometrist and does not perform surgery. We also help with lighting advice, glasses and low-vision tools.

Call (352) 399-5412 or request an appointment.

Our office is at 2478 Burnsed Blvd. We are open Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. We welcome patients from The Villages, Lady Lake, Oxford, Summerfield, Wildwood and nearby.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Please talk with your eye doctor about your own eyes.

Common questions

Can AMD make me totally blind?

AMD affects central vision. Side vision usually stays, which helps with getting around.

Does a healthy diet matter?

Not smoking and eating a healthy diet are often advised. Ask your eye doctor what is right for you.

What should I watch for at home?

Watch for wavy lines or blurry spots in the center of your sight. If you notice either, call us soon.