senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(419) 228-3800

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 Shawnee Optical - Lima 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 Shawnee Optical - Lima 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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177 Reviews
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- Oct. 21, 2024
Takes great care of my mom. Makes her feel very comfortable and answers all of our questions.
- Sep. 28, 2024
Great friendly service.
- Sep. 25, 2024
Dr. Sweidan is the greatest Optometrist I’ve ever been to. He’s very knowledgeable and patient i... n finding the best solution for me! The Office Staff was so friendly and helpful.
- Aug. 24, 2024
Friendly and helpful.
- Aug. 16, 2024
Friendly staff and Dr. Hien Do was very nice and caring. Will definitely come back.
- Aug. 13, 2024
The Dr. cared about my welfare.
- Jul. 28, 2024
All six members of my family have had an appointment with Shawnee optical since May. They are very t... horough in their exams, and answer any questions or concerns that need attended to. Three of my four children were premature and Dr Omar took his time answering questions on the findings during their appointments. He took his time explaining that it was nothing to be concerned with.
- Jul. 26, 2024
Very informed and friendly staff. Always happy with their care.
- Jul. 10, 2024
Excellent care and was patient with my needs! Highly recommended!
- Jun. 06, 2024
The people there are working to the best of their abilities.
- May. 13, 2024
Dr Omar Sweidan is the best! He went above and beyond for my son!! He was genuinely concerned and de... termined!!
- May. 13, 2024
Very quick, very professional, very friendly.
- Apr. 26, 2024
This is the best place! The atmosphere is great! The people are superb!
- Mar. 19, 2024
Great Dr, he makes sure he takes his time with you . Highly recommend!
- Mar. 15, 2024
Super friendly staff
- Feb. 21, 2024
I came here from another office because I was not happy at my old eye care center anymore. From the ... moment I walked in the door, I was met with a smile and friendly eager staff ready to help me. Dr. Wagner is knowledgeable, personable, and down to earth. The young man who helped my pick out my frames was very helpful and honest as well, which I appreciated too. I absolutely love my new glasses and for the 1st time in my life, I feel confident wearing glasses.
- Feb. 21, 2024
I highly recommend Dr. Sweidan at Shawnee Optical! He and the staff are personable, friendly, and hi... ghly qualified!
- Feb. 18, 2024
Dr. Sweidan was very thorough and took his time explaining all of the diagnostic testing being prefo... rmed along with what the results meant. He is very knowledgeable. Amazing bedside manner. He took additional time to address and reassure me of all my concerns. BEST optometrist I’ve ever seen!
- Feb. 04, 2024
Shawnee Optical had incredibly friendly and helpful staff and doctors. I had a wonderful experience ... and will be returning for any of my optical needs.
- Jan. 25, 2024
Courteous, friendly, and professional service.

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Macular Degeneration Treatment in Lima

Our optometry practice in Lima

Photograph of Omar  Sweidan
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Saturday 9:00 am - 2:30 pm
  • Sunday Closed
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senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

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

(419) 228-3800