senior woman with AMD

Macular Degeneration

Know your risks and preserve your vision

(303) 321-1606

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 Sumner Vision 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 Sumner Vision 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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90 Reviews
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- Jul. 10, 2024
I want to extend my gratitude to Jesse for his exceptional customer service today. Visiting from out... of town on business, I realized I ran out of contacts. While my order wouldn't arrive for another week, Jesse went above and beyond by providing trial lenses to use in the meantime. His assistance was invaluable because I literally cannot see without my contacts, and I greatly appreciate his help. ---
- Mar. 13, 2024
Dr. Smith is a great eye doctor, she answered all my questions and made me feel listened to. Happy I... found this practice that is so thorough with all their patients. I also went and saw the other eye doctor here before and felt really comfortable and like he did a thorough job as well.
- Dec. 31, 2023
I can see, and be seen with my new specs
- Nov. 10, 2023
I got my scleral lens and eyeglasses from Sumner Vision. The staffs are excellent, especially Carli,... she helped me to choose glasses and patiently adjusted them when needed.
- Oct. 24, 2023
I’ve had a really positive experience with Sumner Vision. There was a mishap that took place with ... my lenses, and they offered a helping hand to make things right. I certainly appreciate businesses that make the customer feel cared for.
- Oct. 06, 2023
I love Sumner Vision! Dr. Smith and all of the staff are very helpful and patient. I love the glasse... s selection and the top tier equipment. They are always on top of their game.
- Aug. 07, 2023
Dr. Emily Smith is very kind, intelligent and listens to all concerns. Would recommend her for your ... eye care needs!
- Jul. 26, 2023
Dr. Smith is great as she listens to you, takes the time needed in the clinic to dive into your issu... es, and works with your specific situation to create the best option for your vision and your life. It’s nice to have found a trustworthy specialist to see regularly!
- Jun. 02, 2023
Love the staff in the front. The owner was open to my feedback so that is the reason I am leaving a ... 5 star review. They have a nice selection of glasses from great brands. I’m in love with my Dior glasses.
- Feb. 28, 2023
Best place ever they have help me so much with my keratoconus and all my vision needs thanks to dr. ... Emily smith and her team for all the help you guys are amazing👌🙏🏼😍
- Nov. 03, 2021
Informative staff, explaining all facets of the examination. Very helpful team helping me pick out ... my next frame!
- Oct. 11, 2021
Such an easy experience. Loved my exam, felt thorough and clear. Listened to my concerns and took th... e time to address them. Understanding of insurance benefits and options. My doctor was so sweet, made me laugh.
- May. 24, 2021
I got a pair of glasses with blue light filtering lenses and a person named Allen was extremely know... ledgeable and supportive throughout my experience! The office is very spacious and parking is ample. If you are looking for someone who knows this store in and out, ask for him!
- May. 23, 2021
I have been going to Dr Sumner for last 4 years, this is a amazing Optical office with excellent ser... vices from Dr. Sumner and his staff and thank to Alen for his selections on frame glasses to fit for me and my budget. Thank you so much.
- May. 17, 2021
From the time I entered the office, Dr. Sumner and his staff provided professional and comprehensive... optometry services. Each part of the process (insurance/billing, examination, eyeglass fitting) was completed with exceptional skill and expertise. Alan even helped us with a rebate! So grateful to have found an office with such quality care!
- Apr. 03, 2021
The office had such a nice, welcoming vibe. Dr Sumner and the rest of the staff were efficient, prof... essional, and pleasant to work with.
- Apr. 02, 2021
Veronica (Billing and Insurance) is AWESOME! She is extremely helpful and went way beyond what is ... expected to help resolve some insurance issues.
- Feb. 13, 2021
Highly recommend Sumner Vision. Allen really knows his inventory and listened to what I wanted. I wa... s really happy with the glasses he helped me choose :). Barbara and Brittany are wonderful as well, always welcoming and know how to treat their patients properly! 5 stairs to this team :).
- Dec. 06, 2020
Visiting your optometrist can be a bit daunting for some people much like going to the dentist. Ther... e is a lot strange equipment and big words being used which we have no clue as to their meaning. And, then after your exam, you get the hard pressure sale to buy frames and lenses. Well, NOT at Sumner Vision. They are kind and patient and understanding of the process from the patient's point of view. I cannot recommend them highly enough. Do yourself and your eyes a favor by visiting Sumner Vision.
- Oct. 03, 2020
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Macular Degeneration Treatment in Cherry Creek

Our optometry practice in Cherry Creek

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Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
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  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
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senior couple with AMD wearing glasses

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

(303) 321-1606