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Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Vision Loss

Age-related macular degeneration, also called AMD or ARMD, is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness among Americans who are age 65 and older. AMD is degeneration of the macula, which is the part of your eye’s retina responsible for the sharp vision that you rely for activities such as reading and driving.

The symptoms of AMD include shadowy areas in your central vision or unusually fuzzy or distorted vision and lightening of your eye color. The process is usually slow and painless which makes it more likely to go undetected for a time.

The causes of AMD are typically aging and genetics. Other common risk factors for developing AMD also include obesity, high blood pressure and smoking.

If you notice any symptoms of AMD and are beginning to see signs of vision loss, call us today to schedule an eye exam. There are some treatments available to delay its progression and even improve vision.

 

November: American Diabetes Month

Even though November is American Diabetes Month, every month is important when managing diabetes. Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes and consequently suffer from its many symptoms. We want to make sure that you are fully aware of diabetes’ complications so that you know the proper steps in taking care of your health and controlling any risk for diabetes.

Diabetes’ Effects on Vision

You may not know this, but people with diabetes are at higher risk for blurred vision and blindness. These eye complications and symptoms include:

• Glaucoma – pressure builds up in the eyes and pinches the blood vessels that carry blood to the retina and optic nerve, and vision is gradually lost
• Cataracts – the eye’s clear lens cloud, blocking light and interfering with vision
• Retinopathy
• Nonproliferative retinopathy – capillaries in the back of the eye balloon and form pouches, but it does not usually cause vision loss at this stage
• Proliferative retinopathy – more serious form of retinopathy where the blood vessels are so damaged they close off and vision loss can occur

People with diabetes are 40% more likely to suffer from glaucoma and 60% more likely to develop cataracts than people without diabetes. However, most people with diabetes have nothing more than minor eye disorders! With regular eye checkups, you can maintain steady vision health and keep those problems minor. It is important to catch any major disorders and find the right treatments as soon as possible.

 

Ray-Bans

Whether you’re walking down a busy city street or along the shore of a quiet beach, it would only be right that you fashion Ray-Bans. The brand itself is worth a million dollars, but the perfect pair of frames on your face could be worth countless stares and compliments.

Ray-Ban is the global leader in eyewear, established in the early 1900’s, which introduced such classic styles as aviators, wayfarers, and more. Here at Palmer Eye Associates (canceled), we offer Ray-Ban eyewear that is classy and modern. Come into our office and try on a pair of Ray-Bans for yourself! We are more than happy to find the right style and fit to compliment your image.

 

November 2016 Schedule Changes

Our office will be closed on Thursday Nov. 24th and Friday Nov. 25th in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. We here at Palmer Eye Associates/Palmer Optical wish everyone a happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday!

 

On-line Web Scheduling is now here!

Did you know that you can now schedule your routine eye exam online at any time of day? Just visit our website and click on the Schedule Exam link at the top of the page and you can schedule your appointment 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! This online service is available for scheduling routine eye exams only, so please call our office for all other appointment types.

Happy Fall!