senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(573) 552-8569

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 - Osage Beach 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 - Osage Beach 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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- Aug. 16, 2024
We were in town for a few days for my mother-in-law's funeral when my husband's glasses fell apart. ... I did a Google search and found Family Eyecare- Osage Beach just .3 mi. from where we were staying. They were SO nice and had his glasses fixed and us back on the road in no time. Thank you all SO much! You saved the day! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
- Aug. 03, 2024
The entire office staff are so kind and wonderful. I was given an explanation of my benefits that I ... had no idea about, I was able to get non prescription sunglasses since I didn't need glasses or contacts this time. Dr. Dettmer is so kind and thorough. I would definitely recommend this office.
- Jul. 22, 2024
Staffs & Dr is so nice & I would recommend this Eyecare to go to, I promise ya'll won't regret it!
- Jul. 10, 2024
The staff is amazing and cares about why you're there. We are thankful to have found this practice....
- Jun. 14, 2024
Was able to take care of my eye when the er and specialist couldn’t greatly appreciate them
- Jun. 04, 2024
There are so many great things to say about Dr. Dettmer and his Team! Dedicated, kind, caring, and t... horough. A team that continues to remember why they entered this field. Simply wonderful!
- May. 30, 2024
Dr Dettmer provides great eye care services and information.
- May. 27, 2024
Amazing eye care professionals at their best.
- May. 26, 2024
Dr. Dettmer was amazing with my son and has a soft-spoken way of working with children.
- May. 19, 2024
Great Service
- Apr. 27, 2024
Great services
- Apr. 26, 2024
Dr. Dettmer is an experienced, knowledgeable, and caring doctor. I trust him with my eye care. I wou... ld confidently recommend him to anyone.
- Mar. 23, 2024
They squeezed me in for an emergency appointment with a piece of metal in my eye. Great service! Wou... ld highly recommend!
- Mar. 18, 2024
The Staff here are very professional and always very Helpful. The quality of everything received is ... top notch!!
- Mar. 11, 2024
Dr. Dettmer has always been understanding and aware of my vision needs. I feel like I am a partner i... n my vision care. Following surgery with Dr. Luke Lenci (Missouri Eye Institute) I now finally have matching IOL's (near) after struggling for 1 1/2 years with a monovision experience, that never worked. Dr. Dettmer has been instrumental in giving me my life back. I am forever thankful!
- Mar. 05, 2024
Excellent service from everyone!!
- Mar. 01, 2024
Love the staff!
- Feb. 26, 2024
Excellent professional care by Dr. Dettmer and his staff. We’ve been patients for over 25 years.
- Feb. 23, 2024
I you want an optometrist I recommend Dr. Dettmer and his staff. Very accommodating and friendly.
- Feb. 03, 2024
thorough, truthful and an overall super experience.

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Macular Degeneration Treatment in Osage Beach

Our optometry practice in Osage Beach

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senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

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

(573) 552-8569