Carl D. Regillo, MD Chief of the Wills Eye Hospital Retina Service discusses what patients need to know about Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD).
"It's very important for people to know they have AMD, because we do have some very effective treatments," Dr. Regillo says.
"For people over the age of 60, it's not uncommon to see some degenerative changes of the macula, and there are two forms," Dr. Regillo says. "The dry, early stage usually doesn't have many symptoms with it, if the condition stays dry."
"The more severe 'wet stage' causes potentially severe vision loss if not treated," Dr. Regillo says. "But, we do have good treatments, and if we detect the 'wet form' early in its course, we can retain relatively good vision in many patients." Dr. Regillo says.
Patients over the age of 60 should know: • Macular degeneration beyond age 60 is normal • 'Dry' Age-Related Macular Degeneration can be treated with a vitamin regimen to prevent it from advancing to the more serious 'Wet' form • Any sudden vision changes should be checked immediately for change from 'Dry' to 'Wet' form of the condition • Early detection of 'Wet' stage AMD is vital to treat and retain vision
About Wills Eye Hospital Wills Eye Hospital is a global leader in ophthalmology, established in 1832 as the nation’s first hospital specializing in eye care. U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks Wills Eye as one of America’s top ophthalmology centers since the survey began and has the most nationally ranked ophthalmologists in the country. Wills Eye is a premier training site for all levels of medical education. Its resident and post-graduate training programs are among the most competitive in the country. One of the core strengths of Wills is the close connection between innovative research and advanced patient care. Wills provides the full range of primary and subspecialty eye care for improving and preserving sight, including cataract, cornea, retina, emergency care, glaucoma, neuro-ophthalmology, ocular oncology, oculoplastics, pathology, pediatric ophthalmology and ocular genetics, and refractive surgery. Ocular Services include the Wills Laser Correction Center, Low Vision Service, and Diagnostic Center. Its 24/7 Emergency Service is the only one of its kind in the region. Wills Eye also has a network of seven multi-specialty, ambulatory surgery centers throughout the tri-state area. To learn more, please visit www.willseye.org.
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