senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(330) 867-1104

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 Family EyeCare - Snow & Durkin 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 Family EyeCare - Snow & Durkin 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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42 Reviews
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- Nov. 01, 2023
Great office! Everyone has been nothing but kind and helpful! I’m always greeted when I arrive and... the office staff has been nothing but professional and kind. Dr. Durkin is truly one of the best in my opinion. He always takes time to listen to me and he doesn’t rush me. I would highly recommend Dr. Durkin and the office staff!
- Mar. 28, 2023
Great selection of eyeglasses with the family atmosphere. I love my new glasses. Shelly was helpful ... at selecting what would look good on me and I have received so many compliments. Shelly offered high definition licenses which were more than what I usually have purchased but I am amazed at how well I can see now. Thanks again we will be back!
- Sep. 24, 2019
Has helped my family for years...:)
- Jul. 31, 2019
I see Dr. Durkin, and he is very kind, knowledgeable and does a great job with prescribing glasses a... nd contacts and checking in on my vision and eye health. He takes time to talk to you about your eyes, which I think is really important. On a more superficial note, they have a huge selection of glasses too! It's a great office with great people.
- Jul. 23, 2019
I received my annual vision exam and filled a glasses prescription in frames that I purchased elsewh... ere at Snow and Durkin Optical. The eye exam was conducted by Dr. Snow, and he was thorough, friendly, and I felt confident in his prescription. The opticians were easy to work with, had great style suggestions, and adjusted the frames well for me. I recommend Snow and Durkin for your vision care business.
- Mar. 07, 2019
I've been coming to Dr Durkin for nearly 30 years and he has taken great care of me and my visual ne... eds. I am so glad I stumbled upon him all those years ago!
- Dec. 19, 2018
Dr. Snow always rocks! He's thorough and explains everything along the path of my eye examination, m... aking sure I understand all the options, and status/health of my eyesight! Hess is a rock star in her own realm in the optical dept. She walked me through all of the options of purchasing my frames and lenses, and also helped me understand the many ways that I could get additional protection for my eyes. She was thoughtful, courteous and understanding of my wants and needs. at the end of the day, I got Crizal protection on top of transitions while driving in my car...(Something I have wanted for years). I'm glad she was up to snuff on her products and helped me get the perfect pair of glasses! My only request would be if it was possible to carry Oliver peoples frames.....(hint hint)
- May. 21, 2018
I am a new patient with Dr.Durkin and the whole experience was appreciated. There was no wait time w... hich is always a +. The front desk ladies were nice and attentive. Dr.Durkin was a pleasure and made me feel comfortable. A+
- Aug. 29, 2017
I would like you guys to know, I have been struggling to find someone who takes my insurance, and th... e lovely front desk lady just called and made sure that she took my insurance and went above and beyond, more than anyone else! Thank you!
- Jul. 13, 2017
I recently moved back to the area and needed a new optometrist. I called and spoke with a very frien... dly person over the phone to set up my appointment. She mailed me new patient paperwork so I didn't have to sit in the office and fill it out on appointment day. When it came time for my visit, I was greeted in a professional manner. From the receptionist, to the assistant/tech, to the doctor, I had a very enjoyable experience. Dr. Durkin made me feel at home and I was extremely pleased with the entire visit. I strongly recommend Dr. Durkin, Dr. Snow, and the entire office. A+
- Mar. 10, 2017
I have been a patient of Dr. Snow's for over twenty years and he is a wonderful eye Dr. He is thorou... gh, patient and provides an in depth explanation of what is going on with my vision. Both my adult children who live out of town will make their appointment in conjunction with a visit back home. My husband is also a patient of Dr. Snow's. The staff is also very courteous and professional and they do learn to know the patients. Having an appointment is like making a visit home.
- Jan. 24, 2017
I have been with this practice for 58 years first with Dr. Keith then Dr. Starn and now Dr. Snow. Th... ey have always been the best.
- Oct. 23, 2016
We have been seeing Dr. Durkin for over 20 years, and our children are also his patients. We apprec... iate the office staff and doctors for their prompt and professional help with appointments, choosing glasses, clarity in letting us know the issues with vision, as well as being great with our kids. We would highly recommend this office.
- Aug. 11, 2016
Dr. Snow always goes above and beyond the services of a DO. Recommends the best specialists when th... e eye problems require treatment outside his area of expertise. Even alerted my husband to a physical problem that might have gone unnoticed, had he not expressed his concern.
- Jul. 05, 2016
During the over 10 years that I have been a patient, I have received excellent treatment. Both the d... octors and staff are very pleasant and professional. I wouldn't hesitate to refer them to my friends.
- Jun. 17, 2016
I have been a patient of Dr. Rod Snow since 1994. He and his staff have earned my loyalty with excel... lent and friendly service, beyond what I have come to expect from most practices. I trust my eyes with Rod, and I believe that says it all.
- Feb. 12, 2016
Love Dr Durkin. He has taken care of me and my family for years. Smart, professional, compassionate,... and the staff is great! They work hard to give you the best eye care for the best price as possible.
- Feb. 08, 2016
Dr. Snow is a great optometrist. He is honest about what you need and don't need to get done and pri... cing is fair.
- Jan. 13, 2016
Dr. Durkin & the office staff are very caring, professionals. I would highly recommend Dr. Durkin fo... r all of your optical needs.
- Jan. 12, 2016
I have been going to Dr. Durkin for several years. He has taken great care of me and my eyesight. He... is personable and I love seeing him and catching up. Not only is he a great optometrist but also a good friend. Dr. Durkin has seen me through some bad times and was there to help. Thank you Dr. Durkin so much! I hope anyone reading this realizes what a great guy you are!

View All 42 Reviews

Macular Degeneration Treatment in Wallhaven

Our optometry practice in Wallhaven

Photograph of Jeffrey  Durkin
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Saturday Sat by appointment
  • Sunday Closed
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senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

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

(330) 867-1104